1

Dna Lab Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Research Scientist - Virology

Gaithersburg, MD

$30 - $35/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

In this role you'll be working in a lab-based research role to focus heavily upon molecular viral ... Understanding of DNA sequencing techniques (NGS and Sanger) and sequence analysis What happens next:

AP Biology Tutor

Rockville, MD ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Skilled at breaking down complex biological processes including DNA replication, protein synthesis ... Adapts instruction using diagrams, lab simulations, and AP-style practice questions to support ...

AP Biology Tutor

Alexandria, VA ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Skilled at breaking down complex biological processes including DNA replication, protein synthesis ... Adapts instruction using diagrams, lab simulations, and AP-style practice questions to support ...

AP Biology Tutor

Washington, DC ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Skilled at breaking down complex biological processes including DNA replication, protein synthesis ... Adapts instruction using diagrams, lab simulations, and AP-style practice questions to support ...

College Biology Tutor

Washington, DC ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain cellular respiration, photosynthesis, DNA replication, Mendelian and molecular ... Adapts instruction using visual diagrams, virtual lab simulations, and MCAT-aligned practice to ...

AP Biology Tutor

Leesburg, VA ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Skilled at breaking down complex biological processes including DNA replication, protein synthesis ... Adapts instruction using diagrams, lab simulations, and AP-style practice questions to support ...

College Biology Tutor

College Park, MD ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain cellular respiration, photosynthesis, DNA replication, Mendelian and molecular ... Adapts instruction using visual diagrams, virtual lab simulations, and MCAT-aligned practice to ...

AP Biology Tutor

College Park, MD ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Skilled at breaking down complex biological processes including DNA replication, protein synthesis ... Adapts instruction using diagrams, lab simulations, and AP-style practice questions to support ...

College Biology Tutor

Laurel, MD ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain cellular respiration, photosynthesis, DNA replication, Mendelian and molecular ... Adapts instruction using visual diagrams, virtual lab simulations, and MCAT-aligned practice to ...

College Biology Tutor

Rockville, MD ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain cellular respiration, photosynthesis, DNA replication, Mendelian and molecular ... Adapts instruction using visual diagrams, virtual lab simulations, and MCAT-aligned practice to ...

College Biology Tutor

Bowie, MD ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain cellular respiration, photosynthesis, DNA replication, Mendelian and molecular ... Adapts instruction using visual diagrams, virtual lab simulations, and MCAT-aligned practice to ...

AP Biology Tutor

Laurel, MD ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Skilled at breaking down complex biological processes including DNA replication, protein synthesis ... Adapts instruction using diagrams, lab simulations, and AP-style practice questions to support ...

College Biology Tutor

Fairfax, VA ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain cellular respiration, photosynthesis, DNA replication, Mendelian and molecular ... Adapts instruction using visual diagrams, virtual lab simulations, and MCAT-aligned practice to ...

AP Biology Tutor

Bowie, MD ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Skilled at breaking down complex biological processes including DNA replication, protein synthesis ... Adapts instruction using diagrams, lab simulations, and AP-style practice questions to support ...

AP Biology Tutor

Fairfax, VA ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Skilled at breaking down complex biological processes including DNA replication, protein synthesis ... Adapts instruction using diagrams, lab simulations, and AP-style practice questions to support ...

Showing results 41-60

Dna Lab information

See Washington salary details

$14

$25

$38

How much do dna lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for dna lab in Washington is $25.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $27.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a DNA lab?

A DNA Lab job involves analyzing genetic material for various applications, such as forensic investigations, medical diagnostics, ancestry research, and biotechnology. Professionals in a DNA lab may extract, amplify, and sequence DNA to identify genetic markers or mutations. Common roles include DNA analysts, forensic scientists, and molecular biologists who follow strict protocols to ensure accurate results. These jobs typically require a background in genetics, biology, or forensic science, along with specialized laboratory training.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in a DNA lab?

Professionals in a DNA lab often face challenges such as maintaining strict sample integrity to avoid contamination, troubleshooting complex instrumentation, and managing large volumes of data accurately. Collaborative teamwork is essential, as projects typically require coordination with researchers, technicians, and sometimes law enforcement or medical staff. Adapting quickly to evolving protocols and new technologies is also important in this dynamic field. Despite these challenges, working in a DNA lab offers rewarding opportunities to contribute to scientific discoveries, healthcare advancements, and forensic investigations.

How to work in a DNA lab?

Working in a DNA lab typically involves performing laboratory techniques such as DNA extraction, PCR, and gel electrophoresis. It requires knowledge of molecular biology, attention to detail, and often certification or training in lab safety and protocols. Familiarity with lab equipment and data analysis software is also important.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the DNA lab position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a DNA lab, professionals need a solid background in molecular biology, genetics, and laboratory techniques, often supported by a relevant degree such as biology, biochemistry, or forensic science. Familiarity with advanced instrumentation such as PCR machines, genetic sequencers, and laboratory information management systems (LIMS), as well as certifications like ASCP, is highly valued. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are essential soft skills for this environment. These skills and qualifications ensure accurate handling and interpretation of complex genetic data, which is critical for research integrity and reliable results.

How to become a DNA lab technician?

To become a DNA lab technician, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with many employers preferring an associate degree or bachelor's in biology, genetics, or a related field. Relevant skills include laboratory techniques, familiarity with DNA analysis tools, and attention to detail; certifications in laboratory safety or molecular biology can enhance job prospects. On-the-job training is common, and the role often requires working in a laboratory environment with standard working hours.
Infographic showing various Dna Lab job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,078 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

Senior Metabolic & Biomanufacturing Process Engineer

Johns Hopkins University AppliedPhysicsLaboratory

Laurel, MD โ€ข On-site

$106K - $137K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Description
Do you marvel at the complexity of metabolism and seek to leverage natural metabolisms in creative ways to develop new technologies?
Do you want to apply your expertise in biomanufacturing process engineering to pressing National Security challenges?
Do you love contributing your microbial metabolic engineering and downstream processing subject matter expertise to an interdisciplinary team of scientists, focused on developing novel applications?
If you answered yes to these questions, we're looking for someone like you to join our team in the Biological Sciences Group, here at the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Lab.
We are seeking a highly motivated metabolic and bioprocess engineer to contribute to a team focused on engineering microbial metabolic pathways and optimizing biomanufacturing processes, including upstream and downstream processing. As part of the Biological Sciences Group, in the Research Exploratory Development Department, you will be at the forefront of APL's mission to provide impactful contributions to critical challenges. You will contribute to building outstanding expertise in molecular biology, in the pursuit of challenges in national security.
As a Senior Metabolic & Biomanufacturing Process Engineer...
  • Design, implement, and characterize recombinant metabolic pathways in microbial organisms.
  • Design, implement, and optimize biomanufacturing processes.
  • Lead projects and teams for both internally funded and externally funded efforts in the research areas mentioned above.
  • Support new business development activities to expand program scope within the Research and Exploratory Development Department and other business areas across APL, including concept development, proposal writing, and project execution.
  • Work with a technical team providing leadership in the development of new opportunities and support internal initiatives, driving technical innovation and growth in areas relevant to APL sponsors.
  • Participate in the broader APL community by presenting data to interdisciplinary groups and to department management.
  • Develop and maintain effective working relationships with external sponsors.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Have a PhD in Biological Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Molecular Biology or a similar field.
  • Have extensive wet lab experience manipulating the metabolism of microbes and in scaling metabolite synthesis and downstream processing.
  • Have 2+ years experience with analytical chemistry techniques and equipment including: HPLC, MS, or LC/MS.
  • Are proficient in molecular biology techniques, including DNA manipulation and plasmid construction, qPCR, protein analysis, plate-reader assay development, microscopy techniques, and microbial cell culture.
  • Have experience designing, executing, and troubleshooting a wide range of biological assays.
  • Possess strong leadership skills, including excellent written and verbal communication skills, demonstrated through a combination of publication record, teaching, and professional experience.
  • Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a TS/SCI level clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...
  • Have experience working with non-lab adapted or anaerobic microbes, including such as Rhodopseudomonas palustris and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
  • Have experience with yeast, plant, algae, or microbiome systems.

About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at ;br>
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$105,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$290,000 Annually