Microbiologist IV

The Global Respiratory Viruses Branch (GRVB) at the Center for Outbreak Response and Vaccine Development (CORVD) seeks a highly experienced Microbiologist IV - Subject Matter Expert to lead and support molecular diagnostics, laboratory quality systems, and scientific investigations related to respiratory viruses and vaccine-preventable diseases. This senior position will play a critical role in assay development, burden of disease research, and laboratory preparedness, with an emphasis on quality assurance and scientific dissemination.

The ideal candidate will have at least 10 years of hands-on experience in public health or clinical laboratories, with deep expertise in molecular virology, laboratory quality systems, and respiratory pathogen diagnostics.

Requires a NACI Public Trust or the ability to obtain one.

Compensation & Benefits:

Estimated Starting Salary Range for Microbiologist IV: Pay commensurate with experience.

Full time benefits include Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, and other possible benefits as provided. Benefits are subject to change with or without notice.

Microbiologist IV Responsibilities Include:

• Molecular Diagnostics & Assay Development

  • Perform advanced molecular assays to detect, type, and characterize respiratory viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, influenza, RSV, and other vaccine-preventable viruses.

  • Design, evaluate, validate, and disseminate diagnostic platforms and protocols for use in national and global surveillance systems.

  • Support the deployment of novel and standardized molecular tools for field and laboratory use.

• Research & Surveillance Support

  • Participate in burden of disease and etiology studies related to respiratory illnesses, analyzing pathogen roles in disease causation and spread.

  • Collaborate on multidisciplinary projects investigating viral epidemiology, diagnostics, and public health impact.

• Laboratory Quality & Compliance

  • Ensure laboratory operations are compliant with CMS, CLIA, CAP, and other accrediting and regulatory bodies.

  • Contribute to laboratory quality management by implementing standard operating procedures (SOPs), job aids, validation plans, and reports.

  • Maintain and organize laboratory records and ensure readiness for internal and external audits.

• Safety & Biosafety Compliance

  • Adhere to and help promote laboratory biosafety, QMS practices, and specimen management protocols.

  • Maintain necessary medical clearances, including respiratory fit testing, for work in specialized biosafety environments.

• Scientific Communication & Collaboration

  • Attend regular team meetings and provide updates on current laboratory activities.

  • Prepare scientific abstracts for national and international conferences and represent GRVB through presentations and posters.

  • Contribute to the writing and publication of peer-reviewed scientific manuscripts.

  • Serve as a subject matter expert (SME) in virologic diagnostics during emergency response and outbreak investigations.

• Performs other job-related duties as assigned

Microbiologist IV Experience, Education, Skills, Abilities requested:

• Ph.D. in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Virology, or related discipline; or Master's degree with 10+ years of highly relevant laboratory experience.
• 10+ years of laboratory experience, including advanced molecular virology and respiratory pathogen detection.
• Proficiency in real-time PCR, RT-PCR, multiplex assays, and related molecular diagnostics.
• Demonstrated expertise in laboratory validation, QA/QC practices, and audit readiness.
• Familiarity with laboratory standards and regulations including CLIA, CAP, CMS, and biosafety level (BSL) guidelines.
• Strong scientific writing skills with experience contributing to peer-reviewed publications.
• Proven ability to manage multiple concurrent projects and maintain meticulous laboratory records.
• Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience working in a CDC, public health, or academic research lab setting.
  • Prior involvement in outbreak response or emergency preparedness.
  • Experience with LIMS, molecular assay automation, and diagnostic data systems.
  • Track record of scientific contributions through national/international presentations and publications.
• Must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal

Company Information:

Cherokee Nation Operation Solutions (CNOS) is a part of Cherokee Federal - the division of tribally owned federal contracting companies owned by Cherokee Nation Businesses. As a trusted partner for more than 60 federal clients, Cherokee Federal LLCs are focused on building a brighter future, solving complex challenges, and serving the government's mission with compassion and heart. To learn more about CNOS, visit cherokee-federal.com.

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Cherokee Federal is a military friendly employer. Veterans and active military transitioning to civilian status are encouraged to apply.

Keywords:

1. Molecular diagnostics
2. Respiratory virus surveillance
3. Laboratory quality management
4. PCR assay development
5. Biosafety and regulatory compliance

Similar job titles:

1. Senior Microbiologist
2. Molecular Virology Subject Matter Expert
3. Public Health Laboratory Scientist
4. Lead Diagnostic Microbiologist
5. Laboratory Quality Assurance Specialist

Legal Disclaimer: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected veteran status, disability or any other status protected under applicable federal, state or local law. Many of our job openings require access to government buildings or military installations. Candidates must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal.

Many of our job openings require access to government buildings or military installations. Candidates must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal.

Please Note: This position is pending a contract award. If you are interested in a future with Cherokee Federal, APPLY TODAY! Although this is not an approved position, we are accepting applications for this future and anticipated need.