Biologist

Position Title: Biologist (Biological Scientist I), Full-Time Contract Duration: 12‑month base period with renewable option periods Location: Bethesda, Maryland Department: Veritas Management Group/NIH SOAR Summary Veritas Management Group (VMG) is a leading management consulting firm offering solutions to complex challenges involving public health, technology, and military domains. We serve government and commercial sector organizations, academic institutions, and non‑profit organizations, domestically and globally. We are committed to transforming public health through equitable, data‑driven solutions. VMG is seeking a Biologist (Biological Scientist I) to support the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Clinical Center, Department of Transfusion Medicine, Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) Laboratory. This position supports laboratory operations by performing molecular HLA testing, specimen processing, quality assurance activities, laboratory data analysis, and scientific research support in a highly specialized histocompatibility and immunogenetics environment. The ideal candidate will work collaboratively with laboratory scientists, clinicians, and transplant teams to perform high‑quality molecular testing, support laboratory accreditation efforts, and contribute to research and continuous process improvement initiatives. Key Responsibilities Perform specimen processing, DNA extraction, and DNA quantitation using manual and automated laboratory methods. Conduct molecular Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) typing utilizing PCR, sequence‑specific primer (SSP), sequence‑specific oligonucleotide (SSO), sequence‑based typing (SBT), and next‑generation sequencing (NGS) technologies. Analyze and interpret HLA typing and HLA antibody screening results. Perform next‑generation sequencing data analysis and maintain associated laboratory documentation. Prepare agarose gels, perform gel electrophoresis, and document laboratory results. Troubleshoot laboratory instrumentation, software applications, and database management systems. Participate in assay development, validation, and implementation of new laboratory equipment and reagents. Maintain quality assurance documentation and support laboratory accreditation and quality control activities. Review laboratory records and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to improve operational efficiency. Collaborate with transplant teams and laboratory personnel to support patient testing and scientific research activities. Train and mentor fellows, students, and laboratory staff on laboratory procedures and emerging technologies. Support research projects and assist with evaluating new testing methodologies and laboratory processes. Required Qualifications Master's degree in Genetics, Microbiology, Biology, or a related life science. American Board of Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics (ABHI) certification eligible. Strong analytical, organizational, and time management skills. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite. Ability to work independently while managing multiple priorities in a laboratory environment. Preferred Qualifications Experience performing molecular HLA typing using PCR, SSP, SSO, SBT, and next‑generation sequencing methodologies. Experience in histocompatibility, immunogenetics, transplantation, or molecular diagnostics laboratories. Experience with laboratory information systems and HLA analysis software. Knowledge of laboratory quality assurance, quality control, and accreditation standards. Experience supporting NIH or other federally funded biomedical research programs. Work Environment Full‑time position (40 hours per week). Monday through Friday schedule. Position is fully onsite at the NIH Clinical Center in Bethesda, Maryland. Laboratory environment supporting the Department of Transfusion Medicine Human Leukocyte Antigen Laboratory. Requires handling human blood and biological specimens using established laboratory safety procedures. Requires use of laboratory personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, safety glasses, face shields, and laboratory coats. #J-18808-Ljbffr