MODIFICATION
Q -- Radiobiological Research Program
- Notice Date
- 8/27/2004
- Notice Type
- Modification
- NAICS
- 621511
— Medical Laboratories
- Contracting Office
- Other Defense Agencies, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Directorate of Contracting, 4301 Jones Bridge Road, Bethesda, MD, 20814-4799
- ZIP Code
- 20814-4799
- Solicitation Number
- HU0001-04-R-1504
- Response Due
- 9/10/2004
- Archive Date
- 9/25/2004
- Point of Contact
- H. Floyd, Contract Specialist, Phone 301-295-3923, Fax 301-295-1716, - Christina Johnson, Contract Specialist, Phone (301) 295-3069, Fax (301) 295-1716,
- E-Mail Address
-
hfloyd@uhuhs.mil, cjohnson@usuhs.mil
- Description
- This is a continuation of the terms and conditions covered in the basic notice as and Amendment 0001: CLIN 000103 /000203 I. MAJOR DUTIES Dose estimation to individuals following accidental exposure to radiation is based on the analysis of specific chromosomal changes induced by ionizing radiation in peripheral blood lymphocytes of the exposed individuals. The Biological Dosimetry Team evaluates people known or suspected of being overexposed to ionizing radiation. Current research thrust under AFRRI intramural protocols are (i) to automate the biodosimetric cytogenetic analysis, from sample preparation to sample analysis, synchronize components of cytogenetic laboratory protocols, increase throughput using commercially available off-the-shelf technologies and automated platforms, and establish standard operating procedures (SOP) for the automated cytogenetic laboratory (BD06) (ii) Develop laboratory methods for dose assessment (BD03), and (iii) validate candidate biodosimetry methods, such as a rapid interphase chromosome aberration (RICA) and mitochondrial DNA deletion assays using suitable in vivo model systems. 1. This Research Assistant will apply detailed knowledge on cytogenetics, molecular cytogenetics, molecular biology, and laboratory automation, and assist in several in the conduct of several AFRRI intramural research protocols. This person will assist in the procurement, installation, integration and validation of commercially available off-the-shelf cytogenetic technologies. Under close scrutiny of Principal Investigator this person will assist in optimization and synchronization of cytogenetic laboratory protocols, development of SOPs for automated equipment operation, and cytogenetic protocols. 2. The ideal candidate should have several years of experience in cytogenetics in a molecular cytogenetic/cytological biological laboratory, in assisting identification, optimization and validation of suitable radiation biomarkers using suitable in vivo model systems. These model systems include mammalian long-term cell culture, short-term peripheral blood lymphocyte culture model, rodent peripheral blood lymphocyte culture, human radiation accident cohort model, and radiotherapy patient cohort models. 3. The ideal candidate should have several years of experience in assisting in radiation dose assessment to individuals using metaphase spread based chromosome aberration analysis in real accident scenarios. This person should also experience in use of RICA assay for assessing radiation dose to individuals who are accidentally exposed to radiation. 4. The Research Assistant will utilize and is responsible for the day-to-day upkeep of common laboratory workspaces and equipment. These could include Laminar Flow Hoods, Centrifuges and Incubators, Pipetting Devices, Metaphase Spread Harvester, Staining and Cover-slipping Equipments, Automated Hybridization Modules, Metaphase Finder and Satellite Scoring Stations, etc.. Maintenance of automated laboratory includes retention of equipment operational knowledge and coordination of repair of equipments when necessary. Periodic survey of chemicals and equipment are performed and accountability of property and chemicals must be maintained. The employee is required to keep accurate records of usage of chemicals, follow standard procedures based on the Institute's policies for their safe usage, storage, and disposal. In addition, the employee must follow established rules and regulations regarding the safe handling, storage, and disposal of chemical solvents, reagents, and biological materials. 5. The Research Assistant will plan and carry out technical details of experiments using human peripheral blood. This work requires the ability to independently conduct chromosome aberration analysis using internationally accepted laboratory protocols. These will include lymphocyte isolation from peripheral blood on a density gradient, lymphocyte culture, preparation of metaphase spreads, staining for light microscopy and microscopic chromosome aberration analysis. Use of a metaphase finder, and satellite chromosome aberration analysis stations, for collecting, managing, and archiving of cytogenetic data is required. Preparation of DNA hybridization probes and reagents for use in in situ hybridization studies, performing of DNA in situ hybridization and chromosome painting using PCC spreads to measure radiation injury may also often be essential. Typically this study requires accurate and careful use of laboratory technique that often necessitate repetitious sample analyses by paying attention to details. The individual informs the PI and the Team Leader verbally and/or through written reports on routine experimental progress. 6. Proficiency on the use of computers and softwares such as Microsoft Office 2000(tm) on a local area network is essential. Experience in the use of computers to analyze and manage data using statistical softwares such as Microscoft Excel(r), SigmaStat(r), and SigmaPlot(r) is a plus. 7. Maintains laboratory notebooks with detailed notes on preparation of reagents and results of analyses both on a computer and on bound notebooks. Maintains record of reagent quality analyses and material safety data sheets (MSDS) for chemicals and reagents. Assists in the collection, recording, and analysis of research data. Typical1y this may involve the use of a computer assisted data analysis program coupled with statistical analysis subroutines. Updates the laboratory SOPs as required under a strict guidance of the supervisor. 8. Will train other Research Assistant/Technicians and from the Scientific Research Department with analytical and cytogenetic techniques related to his/her specialty area. Performs other duties as assigned supporting the Biodosimetry Team's mission. The person will assist in the preparation of quarterly and annual reports. III. FACTORS Factor 1. Knowledge Required a. Successful applicants will have completed M.S. in Biological Sciences or related disciplines and several years of experience in an automated laboratory environment. Knowledge of laboratory automation, biological sciences, cytogenetics, molecular cytogenetics, or biodosimetry is required. b. Knowledge of automated equipment usage and skills to study radiation-induced chromosome aberrations. Knowledge on the use of centrifuges, blood cell counters, metaphase finders, satellite chromosome aberration analysis stations, automated fluorescent microscopes, and light microscopes. c. Knowledge of equipment usage, general protocols, and sterile techniques to aid peripheral blood lymphocyte culture. Knowledge of cell culture media ingredients, buffers, and associated reagents to maintain cells in culture. Knowledge of basic cell culture laboratory equipment such as pH meters, balances, hemacytometers, microscopes, automatic cell/particle counters, incubators, etc. d. Several years of experience in a specialized automated cytogenetic laboratory, a contract research organization, biotechnology, or a not for profit organization OR any combination of the above education, experience, and training. e. Knowledge of molecular biology and molecular cytogenetic techniques include in situ hybridization procedures to detect aberrations involving specific chromosomes is necessary. Specialized knowledge and skills to prepare metaphase spreads from human short-term peripheral blood lymphocyte cultures and expertise in chromosome aberration analysis to measure level of radiation dose. Specialized knowledge and skills in situ hybridization studies to detect specific chromosomal aberrations. Specialized knowledge to operate and use a metaphase finder, satellite chromosome aberration analysis stations, automated fluorescence microscope and image analysis stations. Specialized knowledge of current internationally accepted protocols and standards for dose assessment based on cytogenetic bioassays. Factor 2. Supervisory Controls PI is the official overseer and exercises administrative oversight over the Research Assistant. However, the Team Leader/Investigator or Principal Investigator may delegate work assignments to meet the overall objectives of the project. All results are open for inspection by any of the overseers for accuracy. The individual is expected to maintain a written record of all work assignments, their progress, results, and interpretations. Factor 3. Guidelines Guidelines include the laboratory's SOPs, safety regulations and instructions, published work related to radiation cytogenetics, the research technicians notebook of procedures, accomplishments, oral instructions, equipment manuals, and standard texts, and meetings with external consultants all of which provide applicable information. Judgment and initiative are used in planning details of the work, such as how to collect and present data, making simple adaptations of methods and techniques, and in recognizing circumstances requiring special attention. Factor 4. Complexity The Research Assistant performs related technically repetitive procedures on a routine basis, applying specific and established guidelines, and record results. Typically, these procedures require astute observations, ability to recognize when it is necessary to make adjustments, and patience to perform repetitious procedures with accuracy. Procedures require sharp observation and wise planning to adjust for variables in work materials to meet heavy, but changing workloads. Factor 5. Scope and Effect The general purpose of the project is to automate the cytogenetic laboratory environment to be able to provide rapid diagnostic biodosimetry service capability based on internationally accepted, established, and validated cytogenetic protocols, concepts, publications, and products. It is critical that the individual's work be accurate and well-documented as erroneous data will have a direct impact on the overall project. Factor 6. Personal Contacts The individual's contacts include PI, Team Leader, PI, Research Assistants, and Research Associates and Advanced Military Clinical Laboratory Technicians of the Biological Dosimetry Team as well as external consultants and computer programmer/analyst. In addition, he/she has contact with research collaborators, scientific visitors, equipment service and sales representatives. Factor 7. Purpose of Contacts Contacts with other persons in the laboratory are established to coordinate the use of space and equipment and to exchange information about the project. Persons contacted are easily identified and generally cooperative. The purpose of contacts is to receive guidelines, plan, conduct, and analyze results of work assignments. Factor 8. Physical Demands The work involves a mixture of sedentary and physically active duties. The physical tasks include a moderate amount of walking, climbing, stooping, bending, prolonged sitting and/or standing. Laboratories are located on several floors; hence, movement to these laboratories requires frequent use of stairs. Factor 9. Work Environment Work is generally performed in a laboratory setting with regular and recurring exposure to a variety of experimental instrumentation and chemicals. Human blood cells are used routinely in the laboratory with universal precaution to avoid exposure to pathogens. Vaccination against hepatitis B and other known blood pathogens is generally accepted common practice for workers using human blood and would be encouraged. The individual is required to wear protective clothing or gear, such as gloves, a mask, gown, goggles, or face-shield while working in the laboratory per Institute's safety guidelines. The individual works in a laboratory with good lighting and ventilation. Work with acids and toxic materials are done with special procedures, usually in a hood. Procedure, protective equipment, and training to prevent or control potential hazards are provided. IV. OTHER ISSUES 1. Biodosimetry Emergency Service Duties An integral part of the individual's responsibility includes research technical support for Emergency Biodosimetry services. Since this activity involves emergency medical response activity, the individual will be required to be on-call using a beeper or equivalent service. The extent of these service duties extending beyond the normal work hours is difficult to predict but not expected to exceed four per year. 2. Work with Human Blood The individual's responsibilities include working with human blood and the practice of necessary safety procedures and conforming to regulations. POSTION DECRIPTION - RESEARCH ASSISTANT CLIN 000104 /000204 (Health Effects of Embedded Heavy Metals) JOB SUMMARY: Responsible for research and/or development in collaboration with others for projects. Provides laboratory and technical support to senior technical and professional staff. ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES: 90% of time 1.Performs laboratory research projects, including collection and organization of data. Makes detailed observations about experiments. Provides basic data analysis and interpretation. 2.Assists with the preparation of technical reports, summaries, and protocols. 3.Maintains clear and accurate laboratory records, inventories and logbooks. 4.Performs data entry for research projects and maintains databases.5.Maintains compliance with established laboratory safety and other procedures. Provides leadership in the proper disposal of infectious and hazardous materials.6. Provides quality control, troubleshooting and the maintenance of specialized reagents and equipment. NONESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES: 10% of time 7. Maintains supplies in the laboratory and keeps the laboratory area clean. 8. Performs other duties as assigned. JOB SPECIFICATIONS: Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Knowledge of standard laboratory techniques; ability to follow general instructions; good communication and analytical skills Minimum Education/Training Requirements: Bachelors degree in a scientific discipline Minimum Experience: 1 year of laboratory experience Physical Capabilities: long periods of standing and sitting; handling various chemicalsRequired Licenses, Certification or Registration: n/a Supervisory Responsibilities/Controls: n/a Work Environment: laboratory environment. Terms and conditions will be continued in Amendment 0003
- Place of Performance
- Address: Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute (AFFRI), 8901 Wisconsin Ave, Bldg 42, Bethesda, MD
- Zip Code: 20889-0527
- Country: USA
- Zip Code: 20889-0527
- Record
- SN00659537-W 20040829/040828101923 (fbodaily.com)
- Source
-
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