Job Description

Applications to be submitted by September 04, 2026

Compensation Grade:

P18

Compensation Details:

Minimum: $69,764.00 - Maximum: $69,764.00 Annually

Positions with a designated work location in New York City, Nassau, Rockland, Suffolk, or Westchester Counties will receive a $4,000 annual downstate adjustment (pro-rated for part-time positions).

Department

(OC) WADS - Wadsworth Center

Responsibilities

Health Research, Inc. is seeking a temporary Research Scientist I to work at the Wadsworth Center, Arbovirus Laboratory. The incumbent will be responsible for investigating factors that drive the transmission and evolution of vector-borne viruses, with a focus on Powassan virus and tick vectors. Responsibilities include conducting studies involving live vectors, processing and testing experimental and field-derived samples by molecular and cellular methods, designing and preparing samples for genomic sequencing, performing data analyses and subsequent manuscript preparation. The goal is to generate experimental data that enhances infectious disease models and supports public health decision-making.

This position will be part of a dynamic team serving the Wadsworth Center’s mission in the New York State Department of Health’s efforts to protect and promote the health of New York’s citizens. Come be a part of Science in the Pursuit of Health®!

This is a temporary position with an anticipated duration of approximately three to four months.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in biomedical science, biology, chemistry and two years of research experience; OR a master’s degree in biomedical science, biology, chemistry and one year of research experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Postdoctoral degree in biomedical, biological, chemical, or physical sciences.

• Professional experience with ticks and the tick-borne viruses they carry.

• Work experience or academic experience with virology.

• Knowledge of molecular laboratory techniques.

• Experience working with infectious agents including virological assays and/or BSL-3 pathogens.

• Experience in analyzing and interpreting genetic data using sequence analysis software including but not limited to Geneious, BEAST, R and MEGA.

Conditions of Employment

This is a temporary position with an anticipated duration of approximately three to four months. Compliance with funding requirements such as time and effort reporting, grant deliverables, and contract deliverables, is required.

Valid and unrestricted authorization to work in the U.S. is required. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

The selected candidate must reside within a reasonable commuting distance of the official work location specified in the job posting and must also be located in or willing to relocate to one of the following states: New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Vermont, or Massachusetts, prior to hire.

Telecommuting may be permitted on a limited or as-needed basis.

The incumbent in this position will be required to wear personal protective equipment (PPE).

This position may require occasional work on weekends, after-hours, and holidays.

HRI participates in the E-Verify Program.

Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer/Qualified Individuals with Disabilities/Qualified Protected Veterans

www.healthresearch.org

About Health Research, Inc.

Join us in our mission to make a difference in public health and advance scientific research! At Health Research, Inc. (HRI), your work will contribute to meaningful change and innovation in the communities we serve! At HRI, we are on a mission to transform the health and well-being of the people of New York State through innovative partnerships and cutting-edge public health initiatives. As a dynamic non-profit organization, HRI plays a crucial role in advancing the strategic goals of the New York State Department of Health (DOH), Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center (RPCCC), and other health-related entities.

HRI offers a robust, comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees, including:

• Health, dental and vision insurance - Several comprehensive health insurance plans to choose from;

• Flexible benefit accounts - Medical, dependent care, adoption assistance, parking and transit;

• Generous paid time off - Paid federal and state holidays, paid sick, vacation and personal leave;

• Tuition support - Assistance is available for individuals pursuing educational or training opportunities;

• Retirement Benefits - HRI is a participating employer in the New York State and Local Retirement System and offers optional enrollment in the New York State Deferred Compensation Plan. HRI provides a postretirement Health Benefits Plan for qualified retirees to use towards health insurance premiums and eligible medical expenses;

• Employee Assistance Program - Provides educational and wellness programs, training, and 24/7 confidential services to assist employees, both personally and professionally;

• And so much more!

Work Location Expectations

At HRI, the nature of hybrid and onsite work varies by position. Some roles require full onsite presence, while others allow a hybrid schedule. Managers determine the specific telecommuting expectations for each role based on operational needs and job responsibilities. If designated as hybrid, you will divide your time between working remotely and reporting onsite. Regardless of telecommuting status, all HRI employees must live within a reasonable commuting distance of their official work location and must reside in one of the following states: New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, or Vermont.