Research Scientist: Bioanalytical Instrumentation

Sandia National Laboratories is the nation’s premier science and engineering lab for national security and technology innovation. We are a world-class team of scientists, engineers, technologists, postdocs, and visiting researchers—all focused on cutting-edge technology, ranging from homeland defense, global security, biotechnology, and environmental preservation to energy and combustion research, computer security, and nuclear defense. To learn more, visit http://public.ca.sandia.gov/casite/.

DEPARTMENT DESCRIPTION
The Biosystems Research Department, located in Livermore, California, was established in 1999 to perform biological research with national security and biotechnology applications. We are a highly interdisciplinary research group that focuses on both basic and applied biological research. Our goal is to address problems with strong ties to national security, such as bioenergy and biodefense, through advanced technology development and new research approaches. We have ongoing projects in the areas of single-cell host–pathogen and immune systems studies, medical diagnostics, therapeutics screening, and biofuels, as well as basic research studies in biomaterials design, protein structure/function determination, proteomics, computational chemistry, computational biology, and microfluidics.

JOB DESCRIPTION
We are seeking a research scientist who will apply microfluidics/microseparations/MEMS to chemical and biochemical analyses that are pertinent to biodefense and infectious disease research. The individual will work on multidisciplinary projects involving analytical chemists, physical chemists, engineers, and biologists to develop miniaturized devices and techniques applicable to clinical diagnostics, single-cell analysis, and protein/DNA separations. The research will involve work with lab-on-a-chip techniques, bioanalytical chemistry, and sample-preparation methods. The scientist will also be expected to establish an independent research program by obtaining research funding and supervising research associates and postdoctoral scientists.

QUALIFICATIONS
This position requires a Ph.D. in engineering (chemical, mechanical or bio-) with 5+ years of postdoctoral research experience. Candidates must also have extensive experience in one or more of the following areas: microfluidic devices or components, electrophoresis, chromatography, immunoassays, and microarrays (DNA and protein). Other required qualifications include (1) a strong record of high technical achievement, as evidenced by publication in high-impact scientific journals; (2) the demonstrated ability to conduct creative, independent research; and (3) registration with the CDC Select Agent Program.
Knowledge of one or more detection technologies, such as fluorescence, electrochemical, and mass spectrometry, is desired for this position. In addition, a proven record in writing funding proposals and securing funds is highly desirable.

Candidate must be able to obtain a U.S. Department of Energy security clearance for this position. To obtain a security clearance, U.S. citizenship is required.

Apply at: http://public.ca.sandia.gov/casite/careers/. Click on Browse current job openings, and type the Job ID number 61085 into the Keywords box. Click on the Search button to access this job opening, and complete an online application.

ABOUT SANDIA
Sandia provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, and a 401(k) with company-match. Our culture values work-life balance; we offer programs such as flexible work schedules with alternate Fridays off, on-site fitness facilities, and three weeks of vacation. In addition, Sandia/California enjoys close proximity to San Francisco, the Silicon Valley, first-tier universities, and diverse cultural and year-round recreational opportunities.

Sandia National Laboratories is an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V. If this position requires a security clearance granted by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), U.S. citizenship and employee eligibility for clearance processing will be required at the time of hire. If you hold dual citizenship and accept a job offer for a position that requires a DOE-granted security clearance, you may be asked by DOE to renounce your foreign citizenship and retain only your U.S. citizenship.