• Submit application and supporting documents by clicking on Apply Now button.

The EPA Environmental Research and Business Support Program has an immediate opening for a full-time Aquatic Toxicology Laboratory Support position with the EPA facility in Gulf Breeze, FL.

What the EPA project is about

EPA’s National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory (NHEERL) is the Agency’s focal point for scientific research on the effects of contaminants and environmental stressors on human health and ecosystem integrity.

The Gulf Ecology Division (GED) is one of four ecology divisions supporting the strategic research mission of NHEERL. GED engages in research to develop innovative solutions for complex challenges to address EPA’s most pressing needs in protecting human health and environment. GED conducts systems-based, effects research to advance the science toward achieving sustainable communities, health and well-being.

This project goal is to characterize species-specific molecular responses (gene expression and protein activation) to contaminant exposure.  This research supports the Ecotoxicological Assessment and Modeling Research Area within the Chemical Safety for Sustainability Research Program of EPA’s Office of Research and Development.

What you will be doing

As a team member, you will receive hands-on laboratory experience in support of aquatic toxicology research, including sample preparation for qPCR and development of in vitro cell-based assays.  You will also assist in laboratory experiments by collecting data and preparing samples.

Required Skills

• Academic coursework shall include science courses with laboratory component;

• Basic experience (at least three months) working in a laboratory setting;

• Experience following written protocols;

• Proficiency performing basic chemistry calculations, preparing solutions, and pipetting;

• Basic experience with biochemical assays, in vitro assays, and molecular biology techniques including RNA isolation;

• Basic experience working with hazardous substances;

• Experience collecting data, maintaining a detailed scientific laboratory notebook, and electronic record keeping;

• Experience with basic laboratory health and safety procedures;

• Strong written, oral and electronic communication skills; and

• Strong organizational skills including experience preparing spreadsheets and PowerPoint presentations as well as demonstrated ability to adhere to assigned deadlines.

Desired Skills

• Training and/or experience in a molecular biology, cell biology, or chemistry lab.

How you will apply your skills

• Preparing biological samples and evaluating gene expression. Lab techniques include RNA extraction, cDNA synthesis, qPCR, and gel electrophoresis;

• Collecting data and biological samples for aquatic toxicology experiments;

• Assisting with cell-based reporter assay development and testing; and

• Maintaining cell cultures in sterile conditions.

Location: This job will be located at EPA’s facility in Gulf Breeze, FL.

Salary:  Selected applicant will become a temporary employee of ORAU and will receive an hourly wage of $20.95 for hours worked.

Hours: Full time

Travel: Occasional overnight travel may be required

Expected start date: The position is full and expected to begin July 2019.  The selected applicant will be a temporary employee of ORAU working as a contractor to EPA. The initial contract period is through May 14, 2020, with potential optional periods to follow.

Working conditions: The selected candidate will be supervised by a mentor who will provide day-to-day direction, as well as coach, advise and counsel the candidate and review his/her work.

• Be at least 18 years of age and

• A Bachelor’s degree in biology, toxicology, chemistry, ecology, marine biology, zoology, or a related field of study within the last 24 months, and

• Be a citizen of the United States of America or a Legal Permanent Resident.

• Citizenship: LPR or U.S. Citizen
• Degree: Bachelor's Degree or Master's Degree received within the last 24 month(s).
• Minimum Overall GPA: 2.00
• Discipline(s):
  • Chemistry and Materials Sciences (12 )
  • Environmental and Marine Sciences (13 )
  • Life Health and Medical Sciences (45 )

I certify that I am at least 18 years of age; have a Bachelor’s degree in biology, toxicology, chemistry, ecology, marine biology, zoology, or a related field of study within the last 24 months,; a citizen or a Legal Permanent Resident of the United States of America; and not a current employee of EPA ORD or the spouse or child of an EPA ORD employee.