Assistant Scientist @ Actalent

Job Title: Assistant ScientistJob DescriptionThe Assistant Scientist will support research and development activities by performing microbiology and molecular biology laboratory work under general supervision. This role involves sample preparation and analysis, execution of established protocols and standard operating procedures, and operation of specialized instrumentation. The position offers the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with bioanalytical methods, federal regulations, quality assurance and safety procedures, and laboratory information systems while contributing to projects that provide critical health and safety solutions.

Responsibilities

• Conduct technical tasks and laboratory experimentation under general supervision using established or project-specific protocols and standard operating procedures.
• Perform experimental work on research projects, including sample preparation, culturing, nucleic acid extraction, PCR techniques, and immunoassay analysis.
• Contribute to the development of test plans, experimental designs, and analytical methods to support project objectives.
• Process and analyze environmental samples for the presence of potential biological threat agents in accordance with defined procedures.
• Assist with sample in-processing, including receiving, logging, and organizing samples for analysis.
• Perform DNA preparation, including DNA extraction and purification, using both manual and automated methods.
• Conduct immunoassay analysis using established platforms and methods to detect target analytes in environmental samples.
• Execute PCR and qPCR assays, including setup, operation, and monitoring of reactions, and ensure accurate data capture.
• Operate and maintain robotic DNA extraction systems such as the KingFisher Flex for high-throughput sample processing.
• Perform immunoassay testing using systems such as the Luminex MAGPIX to support bioanalytical workflows.
• Run qPCR assays using platforms such as the Life Technologies QS5 system and interpret results according to laboratory standards.
• Carry out molecular biology techniques including DNA, RNA, and protein purification and quantification, gel electrophoresis, molecular cloning, site-directed mutagenesis, and recombinant protein expression as needed.
• Enter data accurately into the laboratory information management system and sample management system, ensuring traceability and data integrity.
• Maintain strict adherence to quality control and quality assurance procedures for all equipment, assays, and workflows in assigned areas.
• Support general laboratory housekeeping duties, including cleaning, organizing workspaces, and maintaining supplies and reagents.
• Collaborate and communicate effectively with technical staff at all levels in a team-based environment to ensure smooth project execution.
• Work independently on assigned tasks, manage time effectively, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Follow all applicable safety, QA, and SOP guidelines and maintain compliance with relevant federal regulations and facility requirements.

Essential Skills

• Bachelors degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, or a closely related scientific discipline.
• Knowledge and/or experience in a laboratory or research environment, including basic laboratory and analytical skills and sample preparation and analysis.
• Hands-on experience with bioanalytical methods such as real-time PCR, immunological analysis, and related molecular biology techniques.
• Practical experience with DNA extraction, PCR, and immunoassay methods.
• Familiarity with environmental sample processing and analysis for biological agents.
• Ability to perform DNA, RNA, and protein purification and quantification and to conduct gel electrophoresis.
• Experience with molecular biology techniques such as molecular cloning, site-directed mutagenesis, and recombinant protein expression.
• Proficiency with PC-based tools and the ability to learn new software and systems, including laboratory information management systems and sample management systems.
• Strong ability to communicate and interact effectively with technical staff at all levels in a team-based environment.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while following established protocols and SOPs.
• Strong time management skills with the ability to work under pressure, manage multiple tasks simultaneously, and maintain a high level of attention to detail.
• Eligibility to obtain a security clearance in the future, consistent with working in a secure facility.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with robotic DNA extraction platforms such as the KingFisher Flex system.
• Experience performing immunoassays using systems such as the Luminex MAGPIX platform.
• Experience running qPCR assays on platforms such as the Life Technologies QS5 system.
• Familiarity with wet chemistry techniques and aseptic technique in a laboratory setting.
• Experience with data entry and data management in laboratory information management and sample management systems.
• Solid scientific educational background with laboratory coursework in biology, molecular biology, microbiology, chemistry, or related disciplines.
• Demonstrated ability to adapt to new technologies, instrumentation, and software tools.
• Strong orientation toward quality assurance and quality control in laboratory operations.
• Motivation to contribute to health and safety solutions that can positively impact broad populations.

Work EnvironmentThis position is based in a laboratory environment within a secure military facility. The role involves working with microbiology and molecular biology instrumentation, including robotic DNA extraction systems such as the KingFisher Flex, immunoassay platforms such as the Luminex MAGPIX, and qPCR systems such as the Life Technologies QS5. The standard schedule is Monday through Friday, with core hours from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., subject to change based on operational needs. Work is conducted under strict safety, quality assurance, and standard operating procedures, with a focus on handling environmental samples and potential biological threat agents in a controlled and compliant setting.

Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract position based out of Gaithersburg, MD.

Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $21.00 - $26.00/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

Medical, dental & vision

Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital

401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available

Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)

Short and long-term disability

Health Spending Account (HSA)

Transportation benefits

Employee Assistance Program

Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Nov 26, 2026.

Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Gaithersburg,MD.About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email [email protected] for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)

We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.