Position: Staff Scientist (GS-12) - Quantitative mass spectrometry
The National Center for Environmental Health (NCEH), Division of Laboratory Sciences (DLS), Newborn Screening and Molecular Biology Branch (NSMBB) is seeking a highly motivated scientist to support critical public health initiatives in newborn screening. The incumbent will contribute to the development, validation, and implementation of advanced analytical methods, with a strong emphasis on mass spectrometry-based assays and dried blood spot (DBS) technologies.
This position plays a key role in supporting national newborn screening programs through the development of high-quality reference materials, calibration systems, and analytical workflows that ensure accuracy, reliability, and standardization across laboratories.
Key Responsibilities
- Analytical Method Development & Validation
- Develop, optimize, and validate LC-MS/MS and related analytical methods for newborn screening biomarkers.
- Troubleshoot analytical workflows and improve assay performance, sensitivity, and specificity.
- Apply advanced mass spectrometry techniques, including small molecule analysis and metabolomics approaches.
- Reference Materials & Quality Systems
- Develop, characterize, and manufacture dried blood spot (DBS)-based quality control and proficiency testing materials.
- Design and produce DBS-based calibrators to support assay standardization and accuracy.
- Ensure all materials meet applicable quality and regulatory standards.
- Laboratory Operations & Analysis
- Perform chemical and biochemical analyses according to established protocols and project timelines.
- Conduct sample preparation using techniques such as liquid‑liquid extraction and solid‑phase extraction.
- Maintain and operate LC-MS/MS and related instrumentation.
- Data Analysis & Interpretation
- Analyze experimental data using statistical approaches (e.g., descriptive statistics, regression, multivariate analysis).
- Interpret results and provide scientifically sound conclusions to support decision‑making.
- Support data management, database entry, and reporting activities.
- Quality Assurance & Compliance
- Participate in QA/QC activities including reagent verification, instrument validation, and review of control data.
- Ensure compliance with ISO 17043, ISO 17034, CLIA, and other applicable regulatory standards.
- Assist in the development and maintenance of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
- Collaboration & Scientific Contribution
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to improve methods, processes, and testing procedures.
- Provide technical expertise and consultation to internal and external stakeholders.
- Contribute to scientific reports, publications, and presentations.
Minimum Qualifications
Citizenship Requirement: Applicants must be U.S. citizens.
Education: Master’s or Ph.D. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, or a related scientific field.
Experience:
- At least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 level, including: development and validation of LC-MS/MS or other analytical methods;
- Experience working in an ISO or CLIA–regulated laboratory environment;
- Statistical data analysis and interpretation;
- Providing technical guidance or consultation in a laboratory setting.
Required Knowledge:
- Strong expertise in LC-MS/MS method development and validation for small molecules;
- Experience with sample preparation techniques (e.g., SPE, LLE);
- Familiarity with analytical software (e.g., Mass Lynx, Analyst, Xcalibur, Mass Hunter, Skyline, R, JMP, SAS, Python);
- Knowledge of newborn screening workflows and biomarkers (preferred);
- Strong analytical thinking and problem‑solving skills;
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills;
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines;
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
#J-18808-Ljbffr