Clinical Lab Scientist - Per Diem

University of California, San Francisco•San Francisco, CA

5d•Onsite

About The Position

This position performs genomic test workflows and procedures in the Clinical Cancer Genomics Laboratory (CCGL), one of the four labs under Genetics and Genomics Services. CCGL’s specialized molecular, genomic diagnostic tests have applications in oncology diagnosis and treatment selection. This position involves the operation of laboratory equipment, successful completion of documentation required for quality control, and transcription of test results such that results are accurately reported in a timely fashion. This position will also require the ability to successfully collaborate with faculty, staff, and appointed directors to troubleshoot errant results and malfunctioning laboratory equipment as needed. The qualified applicant is expected to follow established quality control procedures and participate in all associated tasks in the section. Furthermore, the qualified applicant will have a role in the evaluation and implementation of methods and instruments per the discretion of supervisory staff and faculty. Genomics Services at UCSF Health aims to achieve the highest standards in patient care and genomic testing. The division includes four clinical testing laboratories that deliver a range of genetic and genomic diagnostic tests performed by highly trained subspecialists.

Requirements

BS degree in related field with a major in an appropriate field, and knowledge and abilities essential to the successful performance of duties assigned to the position
Experience in high-volume complex laboratory
Knowledge of DNA and RNA extraction methodologies, especially from FFPE tissues
Knowledge of molecular testing including: PCR, quantitative PCR, sequencing, gel electrophoresis, FISH

Nice To Haves

Recent experience in a clinical laboratory using CLIA Molecular Diagnostic techniques and procedures
Recent experience in a clinical laboratory using APeX (Epic) and/or EPIC Beaker
Experience working in a CLIA molecular laboratory
2 years of Next Generation Sequencing experience, including knowledge of library preparation techniques
Experience with automation, including Hamilton liquid handler Automated Workstation

Responsibilities

Perform DNA and RNA extraction from FFPE sections and fresh specimens: This involves manual DNA and RNA extraction, automated scraping using Xyall, and automated co-extraction of DNA and RNA on the Hamilton STAR or KingFisher.
Independently complete clinical patient testing protocols in a timely and reliable manner.
Troubleshooting equipment errors.
Perform other molecular techniques, such as FISH (fluorescent in-situ hybridization) and PCR-based testing, such as MLR, SID, and MLH1, on tumor DNA specimens, and assist the laboratory staff in the performance of these methods.
Perform Next-Generation Sequencing-based tests: this involves extraction of DNA and RNA from FFPE sections or fresh specimens, library preparation, and capture following standardized procedures, and setting up sequencing runs on Illumina instrumentation.
To obtain and track appropriate quality control metrics.
Transcribe and report test results and to operate laboratory equipment to accurately generate test results.
Initiate troubleshooting of errant laboratory equipment as needed.
Follow established quality control procedures.
Assist in developing new laboratory tests; evaluate and assist in implementing new assay methods in the laboratory and in improving the performance of already establish new assays