Molecular Biology Research Assistant II

Overview

Culmen International is hiring for a Molecular Biology Research Assistant II to support the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR). WRAIR is the U.S. Army’s premier biomedical research facility, dedicated to protecting and enhancing the health and readiness of military personnel worldwide. The Medical Systems Readiness Branch focuses on developing diagnostics, countermeasures, and operational medicine solutions to ensure rapid response to emerging threats.

What You’ll Do In Your New Role

Conduct molecular biology experiments, including PCR / qPCR, DNA / RNA extraction, and sequencing workflows.

Assist in assay development and validation for diagnostic applications.

Maintain accurate laboratory records and ensure compliance with biosafety and quality standards.

Analyze and interpret experimental data; prepare technical reports and presentations.

Support procurement, inventory management, and equipment maintenance.

Contribute to publications and presentations as appropriate.

Support in Institutional Review Board (IRB) and Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) protocols.

Assist in ordering and tracking supplies.

Assist in record keeping and management.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, or related field.

Minimum 2–3 years of hands-on molecular biology research experience.

Proficiency in PCR / qPCR, nucleic acid extraction, gel electrophoresis, and cloning techniques.

Familiarity with molecular diagnostic platforms and assay development.

Ability to obtain and maintain required occupational health clearances.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols.

Desired Qualifications

Experience with next-generation sequencing (NGS) and bioinformatics tools.

Knowledge of pathogen detection assays and diagnostic development.

Familiarity with Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), Institutional Review Board (IRB), Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC), and BSL-2 / BSL-3 safety protocols.

Strong organizational and communication skills for collaborative research environments.

About The Company

Culmen International is committed to enhancing international safety and security, strengthening homeland defense, advancing humanitarian missions, and optimizing government operations. Culmen supports clients in over 150 countries to accomplish critical missions in challenging environments.

Exceptional Medical / Dental / Vision Insurance, premiums for employees are 100% paid by Culmen, with dependent coverage available at a nominal rate (including same or opposite sex domestic partners).

401k – Vested immediately and 4% match

Life insurance and disability paid by the company

Supplemental Insurance Available

Opportunities for Training and Continuing Education

12 Paid Holidays

At Culmen International, we are committed to creating and sustaining a workplace that upholds the principles of Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO). We believe in fair treatment and equal access to opportunities for all employees and applicants across all operations worldwide.

Location : Washington, DC

Salary range : $42,702.40–$71,156.80

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