Research Analyst I - Research of Microbiological Chemica Adulteration of Seafood

The mission of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Human Foods Program (HFP) is to assure the safety and wholesomeness of the nation’s dairy products, plant foods, beverages, seafood, dietary supplements, cosmetic products, infant formula, medical foods, food and color additives, and all ingredients that come into contact with foods (HFP regulated products).

The laboratories of the Division of Seafood Science and Technology (DSST), in the Office of Applied Microbiology Technology (OAMT), in conjunction with federal, state, academic, and public partners, is responsible for providing the scientific basis for Agency policy, regulation, and compliance programs which promote and protect the public’s health by ensuring that the nation’s seafood supply is safe, sanitary, and secure. 3. SCOPE The objective of this requirement is to obtain one Research Analyst I to support the research and analysis and outbreak investigations of microbiological and chemical contaminants in seafood. Independently and not as an agent of the Government, the Contractor shall furnish the necessary personnel, materials, services, facilities, and otherwise do all things necessary for or incidental to the performance of the work. The work is to assist senior scientists in the development, optimization, and validation of a method for the concentration, extraction, detection, and characterization of chemicals and Requirements The contractor shall assist with the following tasks:

• environmental sample collection
• laboratory analyses for the testing of seafood toxins
• extraction, purification and characterization of biological toxins from seafood and environmental samples
• propagation of bacterial and eukaryotic cells
• laboratory analyses for the extraction of nucleic acid (RNA/DNA) from seafood and environmental samples for molecular analyses
• assist with experimental design to improve and develop assays
• laboratory analyses for molecular detection and/or characterization of microorganism from seafood and environmental samples
• appropriate documentation of results of all laboratory analyses, data analysis and drafting project reports.
• assist the lead analyst with the daily upkeep of the laboratory equipment and supplies.
• follow all relevant environmental health and safety guidelines of the laboratory Benefits PPO/HMO Health Plan (includes medical, dental, and vision) 401K Retirement Plan Paid Time Off (PTO