Molecular Biologist

Job Description

Job Description

CSS is seeking a highly qualified Molecular Microbiologist to lead the transformation of an existing laboratory into a fully operational and certified BSL-2 laboratory in support of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This role includes laboratory setup, SOP development, staff management, and technical support in molecular microbiology, with a focus on detecting environmental pathogens and supporting water quality protection efforts.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the setup and commissioning of a BSL-2 laboratory, including infrastructure recommendations, safety protocols, and certification processes

• Manage day-to-day laboratory operations, staff oversight, and data quality assurance

• Identify and implement improvements to existing laboratory space to ensure full BSL-2 compliance

• Develop enhanced personal protective equipment (PPE) protocols for BSL-2+ operations as needed

• Design and write laboratory Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and testing protocols

• Apply and advise on molecular biology techniques in support of EPA environmental research, particularly in water quality and pathogen detection

• Conduct aseptic microbiological procedures, including:

  • Real-Time PCR

  • Pathogen detection method development

  • DNA isolation, purification, and quantification

  • Traditional culture-based microbiological methods

• Advise and collaborate with EPA personnel and stakeholders across multiple program areas

• Develop and present scientific deliverables including papers, presentations, and technical posters

• Support task order execution and contract-level performance including technical quality, budget, and schedule oversight

Minimum Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Microbiology, Biology, Molecular Biology, or a related field

• 2-6 years of experience in microbiological or molecular laboratory settings

• Demonstrated expertise in both classical microbiological testing and modern molecular techniques

• Experience detecting environmental pathogens and/or bioterrorism agents

• Proven ability to work independently in a BSL-2 lab environment

• Strong technical writing and oral communication skills

• Experience developing SOPs and laboratory procedures

• Recent contributions to scientific publications, conference presentations, or posters

• Familiarity with EPA laboratory practices or equivalent federal research settings

• Experience managing technical quality, scheduling, and deliverables within contract requirements

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience hiring, training, and supervising laboratory staff

• Experience in EPA or federally funded laboratory programs

• Strong leadership and team coordination capabilities

At CSS, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and merit-based workplace. We provide equal employment opportunities to all individuals, ensuring that hiring and employment decisions are based on qualifications, skills, and performance. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.