Research Microbiologist (Senior)

About the role

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services seeks a senior Research Microbiologist to lead a clinical service focused on rapid detection of drug‑resistant infectious pathogens and to advance laboratory testing capabilities.

Key responsibilities

• Lead a clinical service for rapid detection of drug resistance and perform growth‑based drug susceptibility testing.
• Maintain CLIA compliance and ensure adherence to Division policies, branch SOPs, and regulatory requirements.
• Develop, validate, and manage laboratory methods for detection and characterization of infectious pathogens.
• Design and evaluate new laboratory techniques, overseeing their implementation.
• Analyze laboratory data, supervise quality‑assurance activities, and guide the laboratory team.
• Provide up to 20% supervisory support, mentoring staff and contributing to leadership development.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in microbiology, biology, chemistry, or basic medical science with required coursework, or equivalent education‑experience combination.
• Graduate education in microbiology or a related specialty (e.g., bacteriology, virology) is preferred.
• U.S. citizenship required.
• Demonstrated senior‑level expertise in microbiology laboratory operations.

Required skills

• CLIA compliance and regulatory knowledge.
• Drug susceptibility testing and rapid resistance detection techniques.
• Laboratory method development and validation.
• Microbiology data analysis and quality‑assurance practices.
• Supervisory and team‑leadership abilities.