| Organization | Health Research, Inc. |
| Department | (OC) WADS – Wadsworth Center |
| Location | Albany, New York (On-site) |
| Employment Type | Full-Time (Grant-Funded) |
| Compensation Grade | P18 |
| Salary | $66,442 annually |
(Positions in NYC, Nassau, Rockland, Suffolk, or Westchester Counties receive a $4,000 annual downstate adjustment, prorated as applicable.)
Application Deadline: March 2, 2026
About the Role
Health Research, Inc. (HRI) is seeking a Research Scientist I to join the Laboratory of Viral Diseases at the Wadsworth Center—the largest state public health virology laboratory in the United States.
This position supports critical public health initiatives, including viral pathogen detection and characterization and participation in New York State’s wastewater surveillance program. The selected candidate will contribute to innovative laboratory methods that protect and promote the health of New Yorkers.
Key Responsibilities
Detect and characterize viral pathogens of major public health importance
Perform testing on human and wastewater samples
Import and manage test results in electronic laboratory information systems
Conduct sequence annotation and molecular data analysis
Participate in molecular proficiency testing panels
Support research and development of emerging laboratory techniques
Comply with federal clinical testing requirements and laboratory standards
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in chemical, biological, clinical, or medical laboratory science (or medical technology) and two years of research experience;
OR
Master’s degree in a related field and one year of research experience
Degree must be from an accredited institution
Must meet all federal requirements for staff performing clinical testing
Preferred Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Biological Science
At least two years of experience handling infectious agents
Experience with molecular detection and pathogen characterization methods, including sequencing
Knowledge of Microsoft Office and database management
Experience with oligo design and sequence analysis software
Work Conditions & Requirements
Fully onsite position (telecommuting not permitted)
Travel required up to 10%
Must reside within commuting distance of Albany, NY
Must live in or relocate to: New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Vermont, or Massachusetts prior to hire
Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
Visa sponsorship may be available in accordance with federal guidelines
Participation in E-Verify
Benefits
Health Research, Inc. offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Flexible spending accounts (medical, dependent care, adoption, transit, parking)
Generous paid time off (federal/state holidays, sick, vacation, personal leave)
Tuition assistance and professional development support
Participation in the New York State and Local Retirement System
Optional enrollment in the NYS Deferred Compensation Plan
Post-retirement health benefits for eligible retirees
Employee Assistance Program (24/7 confidential support services)
About HRI
Health Research, Inc. partners with the New York State Department of Health and other health-related entities to advance public health research and innovation. Through collaboration and scientific excellence, HRI works to improve the health and well-being of communities across New York State.
If you are passionate about public health science and want to contribute to impactful research, we encourage you to apply and be part of Science in the Pursuit of Health.
