Scientist III

The Scientist III supports the Newborn Screening and Molecular Biology Branch (NSMBB) by providing advanced scientific expertise in laboratory testing, method implementation, quality assurance, data analysis, and continuous process improvement activities. This position contributes to the development, evaluation, and characterization of dried blood spot (DBS) materials and laboratory testing processes that support newborn screening programs throughout the United States and internationally.

The Scientist III works closely with laboratory leadership, quality personnel, and multidisciplinary scientific teams to ensure laboratory activities are performed in accordance with established protocols, regulatory requirements, and quality standards. The role requires strong scientific judgment, technical expertise, attention to detail, and the ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced, highly collaborative laboratory environment.

Compensation & Benefits:

Estimated Starting Salary Range for Scientist III:

Pay commensurate with experience.

Full time benefits include Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, and other possible benefits as provided. Benefits are subject to change with or without notice.

Scientist III Responsibilities Include:

Scientific and Laboratory Support

• Perform advanced laboratory testing and scientific activities supporting newborn screening quality assurance and reference material production programs.

• Conduct laboratory analyses using established methodologies and instrumentation.

• Assist with implementation, optimization, validation, and evaluation of laboratory methods and procedures.

• Support characterization and testing of dried blood spot reference materials and quality control specimens.

• Review, analyze, and interpret scientific data to support laboratory operations and program objectives.

• Prepare technical summaries, reports, and scientific documentation related to laboratory activities.

Quality and Compliance

• Ensure laboratory activities comply with established quality management systems, laboratory protocols, and applicable regulatory requirements.

• Participate in quality assurance, quality control, and continuous improvement initiatives.

• Assist with audit preparation, corrective actions, preventive actions, and quality documentation activities.

• Maintain accurate laboratory records, testing documentation, and data management systems.

• Support compliance with ISO standards, laboratory safety requirements, and branch operating procedures.

Program and Technical Support

• Collaborate with laboratory leadership and scientific staff to support branch priorities and operational goals.

• Participate in troubleshooting laboratory methods, processes, and technical challenges.

• Contribute to process improvement initiatives that enhance laboratory efficiency, quality, and productivity.

• Assist with evaluation of new technologies, laboratory workflows, and automation initiatives.

• Support scientific collaborations and special projects as assigned.

Laboratory Operations

• Maintain laboratory equipment, instruments, and testing systems according to established procedures.

• Support inventory management, reagent preparation, and laboratory supply activities as needed.

• Follow laboratory safety requirements, PPE requirements, and biosafety procedures.

• Participate in laboratory readiness activities and support operational continuity efforts.

Scientist III Experience, Education, Skills, Abilities requested:

Education

• Master's degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, Biomedical Science, Public Health Laboratory Science, Medical Technology, or a closely related scientific discipline.

OR

• Bachelor's degree in a related scientific discipline with additional relevant experience.

Experience

• Minimum 5 years of progressively responsible laboratory or scientific experience supporting clinical, public health, research, quality assurance, or production laboratory operations.
• Experience conducting laboratory testing, scientific analysis, and interpretation of technical data.
• Experience working within regulated laboratory environments and following established quality systems.
• Experience preparing scientific documentation, technical reports, and laboratory records.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting newborn screening, public health laboratories, clinical laboratories, or quality assurance programs.

• Experience working with dried blood spot specimens or molecular laboratory techniques.

• Experience supporting ISO-compliant laboratory environments.

• Experience with method validation, verification, or quality improvement initiatives.

• Knowledge of laboratory information systems, scientific databases, and data analysis tools.

• Experience supporting laboratory modernization, automation, or process improvement efforts.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong scientific and analytical problem-solving skills.

• Ability to interpret laboratory data and communicate findings effectively.

• Strong organizational and time-management skills.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced laboratory environment.

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.

• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with multidisciplinary teams.

• Commitment to laboratory safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

Company Information:

Cherokee Nation Integrated Health (CNIH) is a part of Cherokee Federal - the division of tribally owned federal contracting companies owned by Cherokee Nation Businesses. As a trusted partner for more than 60 federal clients, Cherokee Federal LLCs are focused on building a brighter future, solving complex challenges, and serving the government's mission with compassion and heart. To learn more about CNIH, visit cherokee-federal.com.

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