Intern (Genomics) (1892)

Company: Battelle National Biodefense Inst
Location: Frederick
Posted on: February 19, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description BACKGROUND The National Biodefense Analysis and Countermeasures Center (NBACC) is a unique facility located at Fort Detrick in Frederick, MD, dedicated to defending the nation against biological threats. Established in response to biodefense gaps identified after the Amerithrax attacks of 2001, NBACC has been operated by the Battelle National Biodefense Institute (BNBI) since 2006. NBACC supports DHS and national biodefense preparedness planning, response, emerging threat characterization, and bioforensic analyses. It addresses critical scientific knowledge gaps regarding biological agents to protect the public and defend the nation against biological threats- whether naturally occurring, accidental, or deliberate. NBACC also provides federal law enforcement with scientific data to support the investigation and attribution of biocrimes and the protection of the U.S. bioeconomy. NBACC is comprised of two centers: National Bioforensic Analysis Center (NBFAC): Conducts technical analyses to support federal law enforcement investigations. National Biological Threat Characterization Center (NBTCC): Conducts experiments and studies to gather data for understanding biological vulnerabilities and hazards. Together, these centers serve as a national resource for assessing risks posed by biological agents and emerging technologies, informing biodefense policy and response planning, and supporting the investigation, prosecution, and prevention of biocrimes and bioterrorism. PRIMARY FUNCTION Interns selected for this position will work with scientists within NBFAC to conduct experiments, perform analyses, and develop new scientific capabilities with a focus area in genomics and nucleic acid sequencing. MINIMUM REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS Must be currently enrolled in a PhD program in a scientific discipline and have a minimum of two years of laboratory-related experience. Experience and/or interest in laboratory method development for genomics-based analysis of complex samples, using llumina, Pacific Biosciences, and Oxford Nanopore Technologies sequencing platforms. Ability to successfully demonstrate technical proficiency, scientific creativity, and accountability. Self-motivated with the ability to function both independently and collaboratively using independent thought. Proficiency and clarity of oral and written communications are essential. Exemplary organizational skills with a proven track record of working effectively both independently and as a team player. Knowledge or experience with biocontainment facilities and procedures, laboratory safety, biosurety, and decontamination desirable. Skills and experience to support laboratory activities and work in accordance with NBACC’s management system (e.g., ISO). Must be a citizen of the United States, able to obtain and maintain an interim secret clearance leading to a top-secret clearance, suitability for DHS, and a favorable adjudication of the Department of Justice (DoJ) for select agent access. Participation in the Immunization Program, Medical Surveillance Program, and enrollment in the Personnel Reliability Program (PRP) is required. May be required to participate in NBACC’s alternative work and/or on-call schedule, dependent upon business needs. PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES Performs scientific analyses/experiments in conjunction with scientists to support NBFAC projects. Maintains security as required for all sensitive For Official Use Only (FOUO) and classified materials as appropriate. Completes assigned training programs and adheres to all QMS requirements, documented laboratory procedures and ISO 17025, as applicable. Assists with moderately complex problems in which analysis of situations or data requires an in-depth evaluation of various factors. Consults with staff to determine methods, techniques, and evaluation criteria for obtaining results. Participates in the testing and evaluation of new technologies and protocols including writing and updating NBACC Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), work instructions and forms to improve NBACC’s ability to serve its customers. Helps to identify departures from the Quality Management System (QMS) and initiates actions to investigate and prevent such occurrences. Assists with analysis, opinions and interpretation, and drafts reports for review. Contributes to the development, optimization, and validation of new or modified methods and procedures. Supports the preparation of necessary SOPs, work instructions and other materials required to maintain the QMS under the ISO 17025 Standard. Assists with maintaining and evaluating records of analysis and reviewing laboratory results, plans, and reports. Ensures that equipment, reagents, and supplies are maintained and used properly. Must be a team player, communicate clearly, be open to hearing ideas and suggestions from others, diffuse situations, and exercise empathy and patience with colleagues. Must have the ability to multi-task, maintain composure under pressure, and utilize effective time management skills to prioritize tasks. Must be a self-starter driven by an eagerness to succeed, maintain flexibility, adapt to change in a productive and positive manner, learn new concepts, and utilize critical thinking to resolve complex problems. Performs other duties as assigned/authorized.

Keywords: Battelle National Biodefense Inst, Catonsville , Intern (Genomics) (1892), Science, Research & Development , Frederick, Maryland