Research Assistant I - Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics

Join the HJF Team!

HJF is seeking a Research Assistant I to perform research and/or development in collaboration with others for projects. The Research Assistant provides laboratory and technical support to senior technical and professional staff and solves less complex problems in carrying out research projects in a laboratory environment. This is the first of four levels within the Research Assistant series.

Serves as a Research Assistant I in the Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, and is responsible for conducting research in cooperation with Dr. Regina M. Day and other members of her laboratory on lung and bone marrow injury and molecular mechanisms radiation toxicity and radiation countermeasure mechanisms. The incumbent will participate in performing experiments, personnel training, and overall function of the laboratory. The incumbent performs specialized biomedical laboratory research using protocols that involve specialized procedures related to animal models of pulmonary and hematopoietic radiation injury and cell culture models of radiation toxicity

The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine (HJF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing military medicine. We serve military, medical, academic and government clients by administering, managing and supporting preeminent scientific programs that benefit members of the armed forces and civilians alike. Since its founding in 1983, HJF has served as a vital link between the military medical community and its federal and private partners. HJF's support and administrative capabilities allow military medical researchers and clinicians to maintain their scientific focus and accomplish their research goals.

This is a part-time position scheduled for 20 hours per week with potential to increase to full time in Fall 2026.

• Conduct specialized biomedical research focused on pulmonary and hematopoietic radiation injury in animal models (Mice).
• Perform experiments using cell culture models to study radiation toxicity.
• Help develop new techniques and protocols to improve research reliability and adapt to specific experimental conditions.
• Utilize advanced techniques including Western blotting, Immunohistochemistry (IHC), Immunocytochemistry (ICC), Biochemical assays to analyze tissues and cells.
• Assist in the detailed analysis of animal tissues that have been exposed to radiation.
• Support senior laboratory members with both small and large animal experiments.
• Participate in personnel training and ensure the overall smooth function of the lab.
• Maintain rigorous written and electronic records of all experiments.
• Assist with general laboratory upkeep and maintenance.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's Degree required, biological sciences highly preferred.
• Minimum of 0-2 years experience required.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of standard laboratory techniques.
• Experience with use of personal computers for manuscript preparation and data analysis is essential. Additional training will be provided for advanced animal experimental techniques.
• The incumbent would ideally have some laboratory training or internship experience and some college level courses in routine areas of biology, molecular biology, and/or biochemical techniques such as cell culture, immunohistochemistry, and western blotting
• Ability to follow detailed instructions.
• Good communication and analytical skills.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a T1 Public Trust background check.

Physical Capabilities

• Lifting: Requires lifting materials up to 25 lbs.
• Ability to stand or sit at a computer for prolonged periods

Work Environment

• This position will take place primarily in a laboratory setting.

Compensation

• The hourly pay range for this position is $19.33-$19.50. Actual hourly pay will be determined based on experience, education, etc.
• This position will be for a maximum of two years and may be full-time starting in the fall 2026.

Employment with HJF is contingent upon successful completion of a background check, which may include, but is not limited to, contacting your professional references, verification of previous employment, education and credentials, a criminal background check, and a department of motor vehicle (DMV) check if applicable. Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents, in lieu of stated minimums, require the prior approval of the Chief Human Resources Officer.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents, in lieu of stated minimums, require the prior approval of the Chief Human Resources Officer.