Scientists will: Design, execute, and interpret experiments on antigen expression, purification, characterization, adjuvant selection, and formulation (independence increases with level) Perform core molecular biology, microbiology, and cell culture techniques (PCR, cloning, Western blot, ELISA) Run and, at senior levels, develop immunological assays (SNT, VN, HI, ELISA, ELISpot, multiplex cytokine, FACS) Support or lead in vitro/in vivo safety and efficacy studies, including vaccination-challenge trials Maintain GLP-compliant lab records; prepare reagents, media, and challenge materials Contribute to USDA Outline of Production, license applications, study reports, and SOPs (III/IV author/revise) Collaborate with Regulatory, Manufacturing, and Quality; present findings internally and externally (III/IV) Mentor junior staff on technique and compliance (III/IV). D. preferred at higher levels); see Level Guide for experience by level Hands-on molecular biology / cell culture technique experience; familiarity with ELISA, Western blot, and/or animal handling Strong attention to detail, data integrity, and communication skills; team-oriented Preferred: target animal species experience (cattle, swine, equine, aquaculture); USDA CVB/GLP/GMP exposure; USDA 9 CFR familiarity; recombinant/vector/nucleic-acid vaccine platform experience; IACUC familiarity (III/IV); publications (IV).