Microbiologist
Measles is one of the most contagious diseases in humans, manifesting as a febrile illness with rash. Rubella is typically a self-limiting, mild viral infection that occurs in children or young adults, but infection in pregnant women can result in serious fetal malformations (e.g., cataracts, congenital heart defects, sensorineural deafness) collectively termed congenital rubella syndrome. Universal immunization of susceptible individuals with measles and rubella (MR) vaccines is the cornerstone to preventing measles, rubella, and congenital rubella syndrome. Suboptimal vaccine coverage rates for the first dose of measles-containing vaccines have resulted in failure to achieve measles and rubella elimination in many regions. Microarray patches (MAPs) have the potential to increase vaccination coverage by facilitating MR vaccine delivery outside of a clinic setting. The advantage of MAPs may also extend to an improvement of vaccine immune responses; elimination of sharps usage for vaccination; reduction of vaccine wastage; simplified supply chains without the need for cold storage; ease of use thereby reducing the need for skilled healthcare personnel; and dose-sparing as vaccine is administered directly to antigen presenting cells in the skin.
The Microbiologist will function as part of the laboratory team evaluating the immunogenicity of MR-MAP formulations compared to subcutaneously administered MR vaccine in vaccine clinical trials. The Microbiologist will directly oversee and conduct laboratory testing of clinical trial specimens to assess the vaccine-induced antibody response against measles virus and rubella virus.
Job Highlights:
- This role will be housed on the Vaccine Immunology Team within the Division of Viral Diseases, Viral Vaccine Preventable Diseases Branch at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta, GA. This position is eligible for situational telework, although the nature of the work will require most working days be spent on-site.
Qualifications:
- PhD is required (preferably in microbiology, immunology, biochemistry, or a health-related life science field)
- Experience and strong understanding of serologic assays (e.g., ELISA, antibody neutralization tests) are required; experience with multiplex serology testing platforms is a plus
- Strong understanding of research study design and laboratory study management
- Organizational skills demonstrating high attention to detail and the ability to organize multiple priorities
- Capable of working independently and within a team environment
- Strong communication skills, both written and oral
- Experience working collaboratively with diverse stakeholders and engaging in strategic partnerships with both internal and external partners
Responsibilities:
- Conducts laboratory testing (e.g., ELISA, antibody neutralization tests, multiplex serology tests) on clinical specimens to assess measles and rubella vaccine immunogenicity
- Supports laboratory quality management program by designing and performing laboratory method validations and completing regular competency checks
- Analyzes and visualizes summary data from laboratory testing to monitor laboratory assay performance metrics
- Develops manuscripts, summary reports, and data briefs related to laboratory testing and study outcomes
- Participates in virtual meetings and videoconferences with stakeholders to discuss laboratory testing progress and timelines
- Provides training and technical assistance to other laboratory staff, as needed