ARPA-H Microbiology (Antibiotic Resistance) Technical Advisor
ECS Corporate Services

ECS is seeking a ARPA-H Microbiology (Antibiotic Resistance) Technical Advisor to work in our Washington, DC (Hybrid) office.

Job Description:

Are you a passionate, innovative microbiologist, biotechnologist, biochemist, or biomedical engineer ready to tackle some of the biggest challenges in science?

The Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H) has launched multiple programs to revolutionize the identification and treatment of bacterial infections. The Defeating Antibiotic Resistance through Transformative Solutions (DARTS) program within ARPA-H is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Scientific Technical Advisor. Bacterial resistance is a growing threat, and current diagnostic methods are too slow to effectively combat it. DARTS is developing a groundbreaking ultra-high throughput imaging and culturing platform that can rapidly identify pathogens and optimize antibiotic selection. This technology has the potential to transform patient care and antibiotic stewardship on a global scale.

In this crucial role, you will serve as the scientific and engineering technical advisor (SETA)-providing support and thought leadership to the delivery team responsible for research, development, and application of cutting-edge microbiological and diagnostics capabilities, high-throughput screening platforms and technologies, and antibiotics and resistance mechanisms.

What you will do:

• Provide deep expertise in microbiology:
  • Understanding bacterial pathogens, their growth characteristics, and mechanisms of antibiotic resistance is crucial.
  • Thought-leadership and oversight in bacterial culturing methods and techniques.
  • Understanding of antibiotic resistance, experience searching for new antibiotics, and expertise in antibiotic alignment with infections.
• Expertise in compact and rapid diagnostic approaches:
  • Experience and understanding of ultra-high-speed screening systems for bacterial analysis.
  • Experience in development of high-throughput screening (HTS) mechanisms and antibacterial drug discovery.
• Stay current with scientific advancements:
  • Actively track and analyze new research findings within the field.
  • Identify and propose emerging methodologies and technologies that could enhance the program's progress.
  • Participate in scientific discussions and presentations, contributing your expertise to the program's overall knowledge base.
• Collaborate effectively within a diverse team:
  • Build strong relationships with computational scientists, engineers, and other scientific advisors involved in the program.
  • Communicate complex scientific concepts clearly and concisely to both technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Actively participate in brainstorming sessions and problem-solving exercises to drive the program forward.

Required Skills:

• PhD in Microbiology, Biotechnology, or a closely related field.
• Minimum 7 years of experience in a research laboratory setting, preferably with expertise in bacterial culture techniques, high-throughput technologies, and/or antibiotic susceptibility testing.
• Strong understanding of the principles of microbiology, diagnostics, and antibiotic resistance.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research, analyze data, and write scientific reports.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong work ethic and a passion for scientific discovery.
• U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency is required.

Desired Skills:

• Experience supporting Federal ARPA agencies is preferred.

ECS is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate or allow discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, genetic information, registered domestic partner status, marital status, status as a crime victim, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. ECS promotes affirmative action for minorities, women, disabled persons, and veterans.

ECS is a leading mid-sized provider of technology services to the United States Federal Government. We are focused on people, values and purpose. Every day, our 3800+ employees focus on providing their technical talent to support the Federal Agencies and Departments of the US Government to serve, protect and defend the American People.

General Description of Benefits

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