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Responsible for biosafety measures at the Twinbrook 3 Insectary Facility (TW3-IF) to protect researchers and staff from exposure to insect bites and vector-borne infectious agents.
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Responsible for the implementation of protocols and physical barriers to ensure the containment of mosquitoes at TW3-IF.
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Oversee researchers conducting experiments with infectious agents and maintain containment of mosquitoes harboring human pathogens (viruses and parasites) in the high-security area of TW3IF.
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Maintain and manipulate mosquitoes infected with human pathogens in the biosafety section of the insectary.
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Develop and implement Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the maintenance and manipulation of genetically modified mosquitoes.
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Develop SOPs for the morphological and molecular taxonomic identification of the various mosquito species reared in the insectary.
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Conduct regular taxonomic identification of mosquitoes to prevent cross-contamination between different species reared at TW3-IF.
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Assist with the experimental infection of mosquitoes with murine malaria parasites.
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Oversee the biosafety component of mosquito colony maintenance.
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Develop and implement SOPs for the production of various species and strains of Anopheline mosquitoes in a secure insectary.
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Perform laboratory quality control, including upkeep and routine maintenance of equipment upon government approval. Handle biological materials, infectious agents, biological waste and other tasks as required.
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Write reports detailing findings, methods, and procedures—including any modifications employed—specimens and materials involved, and experimental results. Interpret, evaluate, and discuss results with the project officer as appropriate for subsequent studies.
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Prepare various media, stock supplies, and other reagents for laboratory use.
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Ensure sufficient quantities of selected species and strains of Anopheles mosquitoes are available each week for experimental purposes.
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Perform a variety of complex procedures involving molecular biology techniques related to malaria parasites and the mosquitoes that transmit them. As these parasites are human pathogens, some procedures will require work in a BSL-2 environment.
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Assist in preparing manuscripts for publication and perform literature searches for laboratory methodologies as needed.
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Maintain accurate daily records of experiments and results in bound laboratory notebooks and electronic databases. Make minor modifications or adaptations to established methods, procedures, and techniques to solve workplace problems.
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Assist post-baccalaureate students, postdoctoral fellows, and scientific visitors in the use of sophisticated laboratory equipment and specialized procedures and techniques.
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Collaborate with investigators on experiments to develop genetically modified lines of Anopheline mosquitoes.
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Develop and implement record-keeping systems to document the production of various mosquito lots.
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Discuss data and consult with external investigators as requested by the Federal Task Leader.
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Perform computer data analysis and use specialized software programs to prepare data for publication.
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Calibrate and operate various laboratory instruments.
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B.A. or B.S. degree in Biology, Life Sciences or a related discipline.
Two (2) years of specialized experience plus a BA/BS degree is equivalent to a Master’s degree.
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Minimum of five (5) years of experience in biology or a related field.
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Demonstrates knowledge of maintaining accurate and detailed records.
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Demonstrates knowledge of proper laboratory disposal methods and safety procedures.
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Demonstrates experience working in a laboratory environment at a BSL2 level.
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Demonstrates experience in the rearing and maintenance of colonies of genetically modified Anopheline mosquitoes.
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Demonstrates technical experience in experiments designed to manipulate mosquito genetics.
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Demonstrates experience in implementing standard operating procedures for biosafety and containment of an insectary facility.
