Scientist

(ID: 2026-2888)

Axle is a bioscience and information technology company that offers advancements in translational research, biomedical informatics, and data science applications to research centers and healthcare organizations nationally and abroad. With experts in biomedical science, software engineering, and program management, we focus on developing and applying research tools and techniques to empower decision-making and accelerate research discoveries. We work with some of the top research organizations and facilities in the country including multiple institutes at the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

Axle is seeking a Scientist to join our vibrant team at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) supporting the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) located in Gaithersburg, MD.

Benefits We Offer:

• 100% Medical, Dental & Vision Coverage for Employees
• Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays
• 401K match up to 5%
• Educational Benefits for Career Growth
• Employee Referral Bonus
• Flexible Spending Accounts:
  • Healthcare (FSA)
  • Parking Reimbursement Account (PRK)
  • Dependent Care Assistant Program (DCAP)
  • Transportation Reimbursement Account (TRN)

Certifications & Licenses

• Master's or Ph.D. in Biological Sciences or a related field with a minimum of 2 years of experience in an industrial setting focused on the development of stable cell lines for vaccine and biotherapeutic candidates

   

Field of Study

• Biology

   

Software

• MS Office Suite

   

Skills

• Extensive hands-on experience with aseptic technique and mammalian cell culture for the purpose of generating clonally derived cell lines to produce monoclonal antibodies or vaccine candidates

• Demonstrated ability to produce and screen hundreds of clonally derived CHO or 293 cell lines for top performers

• Expertise in designing and constructing plasmids for gene expression using molecular cloning methods

• Hands-on experience with multiple supporting technologies for cell line engineering, including cell counting, high-throughput transfection, single-cell cloning/deposition, flow cytometry, automated liquid handling systems, and automated small-scale bioreactor systems

• Ability to independently design experiments and work plans and manage project timelines for multiple complex projects simultaneously

• Experience preparing technical reports, SOPs, data presentations, and documents needed for technology transfer and regulatory filing

• Expertise in molecular biology techniques for genetic characterization of cell lines, including RT-PCR and NGS

   

Deliverables

• Inspect Equipment — Ad-Hoc

• Meet with lab members to present updates — Ad-Hoc

   

Statement of Work Details

• Plan and execute the generation of stable cell lines for preclinical and clinical material production to advance candidates including monoclonal antibodies, recombinant proteins, and virus like particles — 1

• Use molecular biology techniques, including RT-PCR and NGS, for genetic characterization of cell lines — 2

• Gene synthesis including oligo synthesis, plasmid design, and construction — 3

• Independently execute all steps of the process including plasmid construction, stable pool generation, single cell cloning, and top clone selection

• Supports the planning and execution of research experiments in the context of the laboratory's overall research program

• Draft and verify data for CMC sections of pre-IND and IND documents to ensure successful registration of candidates

• Design, perform, and troubleshoot experiments and analyze data for both development and deliverable projects

• Supports laboratory staff on research projects and techniques

• Maintain and support one or more pieces of laboratory instrumentation

• Maintains laboratory equipment and the training of others in their use

• Assists in maintaining adequate space and facilities for ongoing and projected research studies

• Identify, propose, and execute process and procedural changes to improve performance, robustness, productivity, and efficiency by reviewing recent literature and new technologies

• Evaluates, analyzes and interprets research data, communicates results and methods in reports, presentations, and manuscripts

• Develop and track timelines and experimental plans for multiple projects simultaneously and regularly review records of tasks performed by other team members

• Coordinates with junior staff to modify research protocols

• Prepare oral presentations and posters for internal and external groups/conferences

• Present results of clinical and experimental research at recognized scientific meetings by lectures and exhibits (poster sessions)

• Presents research at national scientific meetings and symposia

• Generate, maintain, and review accurate daily records of experiments and results in a laboratory notebook

• Prepare and review experimental plans, proposals, reports, SOPs, and production records

• Provides interpretation of results, guidance, and scientific support to the management team

• Train staff on the proper usage of equipment

• Mentors junior level scientists

Disclaimer: The above description is meant to illustrate the general nature of work and level of effort being performed by individuals assigned to this position or job description. This is not restricted as a complete list of all skills, responsibilities, duties, and/or assignments required. Individuals may be required to perform duties outside of their position, job description or responsibilities as needed.

The diversity of Axle’s employees is a tremendous asset. We are firmly committed to providing equal opportunity in all aspects of employment and will not tolerate any illegal discrimination or harassment based on age, race, gender, religion, national origin, disability, marital status, covered veteran status, sexual orientation, status with respect to public assistance, and other characteristics protected under state, federal, or local law and to deter those who aid, abet, or induce discrimination or coerce others to discriminate.

Accessibility: If you need an accommodation as part of the employment process please contact: [email protected]

This role has a market-competitive salary with an anticipated base compensation range listed below. Actual salaries will vary depending on a candidate’s experience, qualifications, skills, and location.