Research Technician

ICON plc is a world-leading healthcare intelligence and clinical research organisation. From molecule to medicine, we advance clinical research providing outsourced services to pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical device and government and public health organisations. With our patients at the centre of all that we do, we help to accelerate the development of drugs and devices that save lives and improve quality of life. Our people are our greatest strength, are at the core of our culture, and the driving force behind our success. ICON people have a mission to succeed and a passion that ensures what we do, we do well.

ICON Government and Public Health Solutions (IGP) is a full-service CRO specializing in preclinical through phase IV support of clinical research and clinical trial services for biologics, drugs, and devices. We help our customers get their products to market faster with an array of research, regulatory, and sponsor services. Globally, we respond rapidly to health crises and serve where few others do. We create a unique synergy in the global market, with projects spanning the government, academic, and commercial sectors. ICON Government and Public Health Solutions has a distinct ability to provide rapid response efforts to global health crises.

IGP is recruiting for a Research Technician IV to support Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR) Wound Infection Department (WID).  WID is tasked with delivering specific, effective countermeasures for infection of combat wounds pre-injury, at the point-of-injury, and post-injury.  The Human Monoclonal Antibody Platform (HMAP) group focuses on in vitro and in vivo research of virulence factors associated with ESKAPEE pathogens and developing monoclonal antibodies against them.

• Duties include, but not limited to: 

  • Perform a variety of laboratory procedures and be familiar with the field's concepts, practices and procedures including, but not limited to, microbiology, immunology and molecular biology. 
  • Work as part of a scientific team to understand and resolve complex biological questions while contributing to product development through the analysis and interpretation of data and presentation of findings at meetings. 
  • Serve as a technical expert in microbial pathogenesis, microbial genetics, genomics and related virulence factors in one or more of the ESKAPEE pathogens (Enterococcus species, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterobacter cloacae, and Escherichia coli) (a minimum of five studies or as required)
  • Perform research on monoclonal antibody development for microbial pathogens of military relevance and animal testing
  • Develop and recommend research protocols and experimental techniques on monoclonal antibody development for submission and approval by the department chief (a minimum of five studies or as required) and report to the COR annually.
  • Conduct research on projects associated with virulence factors and monoclonal antibody development for one or more of the ESKAPEE pathogens (Enterococcus species, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterobacter cloacae, and Escherichia coli) (a minimum of five studies or as required).
  • Plan, coordinate and perform microbiological studies on virulence factors and monoclonal antibody development, to include animal modeling, under biosafety level two (a minimum of five studies or as required).
  • Express and purify recombinant proteins for antibody production, deliver antibodies, crystallize antigen: antibody complexes and mass spectrometry of all products.
  • Keep accurate and complete records of research done in accordance with applicable standards.
  • Submit reports and data summaries as requested and prepare research results for presentation and publication in the scientific literature.
  • Provide all job-related progress reports/technical reports as requested.
  • Maintain laboratory operation to include insuring stocks of laboratory supplies and reagents, ordering supplies and preparing supply requests for approval, annual inventory of micro-organisms, annually updating of technical research support area SOPs, maintaining a supply of clean glassware, properly disposing of hazardous biological and chemical waste, preparing reagents, and maintaining an inventory of laboratory chemicals, orderliness and cleanliness.
  • Maintain a safe workplace ensuring that he/she is aware of and observes appropriate safety and occupational health rules and regulations.
  • Comply with occupational health and safety standards and complete all required safety, biosafety and security training classes as established by WRAIR as minimal standard in the Joint Safety Manual.

Citizenship: Must be a US citizen

Clearance: NACI

Education: Bachelor of Science in Microbiology, Immunology, Molecular Biology and Biochemistry or similar discipline

Years’ experience: At least three (3) years of experience in a scientific laboratory setting

• Experience with small animal models required.
• Experience with antibody development is required.
• Proficiency in basic laboratory techniques and mathematics skills required.
• Must have ability to perform work at a high level of accuracy and maintain detailed records of research.
• Strong computer skills and experience with relevant software including MS Office and GraphPad Prism.

Additional Information:

• • Onsite at Walter Reed Army Institute of Research in Silver Spring, MD
  • Must obtain required occupational physical examinations, annual serological tests and any required security clearance to conduct work in department laboratories.
  • Night and weekend hours may be required

Benefits of Working in ICON:

Our success depends on the knowledge, capabilities and quality of our people. That’s why we are committed to developing our employees in a continuous learning culture – one where we challenge you with engaging work and where every experience adds to your professional development.

At ICON, our focus is to provide you with a comprehensive and competitive total reward package that comprises, not only an excellent level of base pay, but also a wide range of variable pay and recognition programs. In addition, our best in class employee benefits, supportive policies and wellbeing initiatives are tailored to support you and your family at all stages of your career - both now, and into the future.

ICON, including subsidiaries, is an equal opportunity and inclusive employer and is committed to providing a workplace free of discrimination and harassment. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, or in order to perform the essential functions of a position, please let us know.