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Assistant Insectary Jobs in Maryland (NOW HIRING)

... the insectary. * Conduct regular taxonomic identification of mosquitoes to prevent cross-contamination between different species reared at TW3-IF. * Assist with the experimental infection of ...

... in the insectary. Conduct regular taxonomic identification of mosquitoes to prevent cross-contamination between different species reared at TW3-IF. Assist with the experimental infection of ...

Entomologist

Rockville, MD · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Dependent Care Assistant Program (DCAP) * Transportation Reimbursement Account (TRN) Overview Axle ... Experience culturing malaria parasites and operating an insectary . * Strong background in ...

Entomologist

Rockville, MD · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Dependent Care Assistant Program (DCAP) * Transportation Reimbursement Account (TRN) Overview Axle ... Experience culturing malaria parasites and operating an insectary . * Strong background in ...

Dependent Care Assistant Program (DCAP) * Transportation Reimbursement Account (TRN) Overview Axle ... Experience culturing malaria parasites and operating an insectary . * Strong background in ...

Dependent Care Assistant Program (DCAP) * Transportation Reimbursement Account (TRN) Overview Axle ... Experience culturing malaria parasites and operating an insectary . * Strong background in ...

Assistant Insectary information

What are Assistant Insectaries?

Assistant Insectaries are professionals who support the operation and maintenance of insectaries, facilities designed for the breeding and study of insects. Their responsibilities typically include caring for insect colonies, preparing food and habitats, monitoring environmental conditions, and assisting with research or pest control projects. They play a crucial role in agricultural research, biological control programs, and entomological studies by ensuring the health and quality of insect populations used in various scientific and commercial applications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Insectary, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Insectary, you generally need a background in biological sciences, attention to detail, and experience in laboratory or agricultural settings. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, insect rearing protocols, and data recording systems is typically required, and some positions may value certifications in laboratory safety or pest management. Strong organizational skills, teamwork, and the ability to follow precise instructions are soft skills that help individuals excel in this role. These competencies are crucial for maintaining healthy insect colonies, ensuring accurate research data, and supporting the overall goals of entomological studies.

What are some common challenges faced by Assistant Insectary staff, and how can they be addressed?

Assistant Insectary staff often encounter challenges such as maintaining optimal environmental conditions for insect colonies, adhering to strict protocols to prevent contamination, and handling delicate species that require specialized care. These challenges can be addressed by closely following standard operating procedures, regularly monitoring equipment and environmental controls, and collaborating with the research team to troubleshoot any issues. Staying organized and documenting daily activities also helps in ensuring the health and consistency of insect populations.

What is the difference between Assistant Insectary vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectAssistant InsectaryLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require basic biological knowledgeAssociate degree or relevant certification in biology or laboratory sciences
Work EnvironmentInsectaries, controlled environments focused on insect rearing and careLaboratories, research facilities, or clinical settings
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, pest control companies, agricultural researchMedical labs, research institutions, biotech companies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles in insect researchComparing lab support roles in biological sciences

The Assistant Insectary primarily supports insect rearing and care within research or pest control environments, often requiring basic biological knowledge. In contrast, Laboratory Technicians typically work in lab settings with more technical responsibilities and may need specialized certifications. Both roles are essential in biological research but differ in work environment and required credentials.

What are popular job titles related to Assistant Insectary jobs in Maryland? For Assistant Insectary jobs in Maryland, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Insectary jobs in Maryland look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Insectary jobs in Maryland are:
What cities in Maryland are hiring for Assistant Insectary jobs? Cities in Maryland with the most Assistant Insectary job openings:
Infographic showing various Assistant Insectary job openings in Maryland as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Biologist

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Job Title
Biologist
Job Description
Cape Fox Facilities Services is seeking a Biologist to join our team in Bethesda, MD in support of the NIH.
Responsibilities:
  • Responsible for biosafety measures at the Twinbrook 3 Insectary Facility (TW3-IF) to protect researchers and staff from exposure to insect bites and vector-borne infectious agents.
  • Responsible for the implementation of protocols and physical barriers to ensure the containment of mosquitoes at TW3-IF.
  • Oversee researchers conducting experiments with infectious agents and maintain containment of
  • mosquitoes harboring human pathogens (viruses and parasites) in the high-security area of TW3-IF.
  • Maintain and manipulate mosquitoes infected with human pathogens in the biosafety section of the insectary.
  • Develop and implement Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the maintenance and manipulation of genetically modified mosquitoes.
  • Develop SOPs for the morphological and molecular taxonomic identification of the various mosquito species reared in the insectary.
  • Conduct regular taxonomic identification of mosquitoes to prevent cross-contamination between different species reared at TW3-IF.
  • Assist with the experimental infection of mosquitoes with murine malaria parasites.
  • Oversee the biosafety component of mosquito colony maintenance
  • Develop and implement SOPs for the production of various species and strains of Anopheline mosquitoes in a secure insectary.
  • Perform laboratory quality control, including upkeep and routine maintenance of equipment upon government approval. Handle biological materials, infectious agents, biological waste and other tasks as required.
  • Write reports detailing findings, methods, and procedures-including any modifications employed-specimens and materials involved, and experimental results. Interpret, evaluate, and discuss results with the project officer as appropriate for subsequent studies.
  • Prepare various media, stock supplies, and other reagents for laboratory use.
  • Ensure sufficient quantities of selected species and strains of Anopheles mosquitoes are available each week for experimental purposes.
  • Perform a variety of complex procedures involving molecular biology techniques related to malaria parasites and the mosquitoes that transmit them. As these parasites are human pathogens, some procedures will require work in a BSL-2 environment.
  • Assist in preparing manuscripts for publication and perform literature searches for laboratory methodologies as needed.
  • Maintain accurate daily records of experiments and results in bound laboratory notebooks and electronic databases. Make minor modifications or adaptations to established methods, procedures, and techniques to solve workplace problems.
  • Assist post-baccalaureate students, postdoctoral fellows, and scientific visitors in the use of sophisticated laboratory equipment and specialized procedures and techniques.
  • Collaborate with investigators on experiments to develop genetically modified lines of Anopheline mosquitoes.
  • Develop and implement record-keeping systems to document the production of various mosquito lots.
  • Discuss data and consult with external investigators as requested by the Federal Task Leader.
  • Perform computer data analysis and use specialized software programs to prepare data for publication.
  • Calibrate and operate various laboratory instruments.

Travel Requirements
0 - 10%
Job Requirements
  • B.A. or B.S. degree in Biology, Life Sciences or a related discipline. Two (2) years of specialized experience plus a BA/BS degree is equivalent to a Master's degree.
  • Minimum of five (5) years of experience in biology or a related field.
  • Demonstrates knowledge of maintaining accurate and detailed records.
  • Demonstrates knowledge of proper laboratory disposal methods and safety procedures.
  • Demonstrates experience working in a laboratory environment at a BSL2 level.
  • Demonstrates experience in the rearing and maintenance of colonies of genetically modified Anopheline mosquitoes.
  • Demonstrates technical experience in experiments designed to manipulate mosquito genetics.
  • Demonstrates experience in implementing standard operating procedures for biosafety and containment of an insectary facility.

Cape Fox Corporation, its subsidiaries and affiliates provide equal employment opportunities to all persons and prohibit employment decisions on the basis of race, religion, color, creed, national origin, sex, age, disability, political affiliation, protected veteran status, or sexual orientation. Cape Fox Corporation, its subsidiaries and affiliates offer preference to Cape Fox Corporation shareholders, descendants and other Native Americans pursuant to Public Law 100-241.
Category
Science / Research
Location
NIH - Rockville, MD 20850 US (Primary)
Education
Bachelor's Degree