Genetics Trainee

FULGENT THERAPEUTICS LLC•Alpharetta, GA

3d•Onsite

About The Position

Under direct supervision, performs laboratory procedures at an entry-level capacity in accordance with standard procedures. Rotates through each section of the laboratory and develops proficiency in cell culture and harvest, microscope monitor analysis of chromosomes for detection of abnormalities, and the preparation of karyotypes. Adheres to laboratory policies for safety, conduct, and performance. This is an 18-month position. Upon passing the certification exam, the trainee will be eligible for a promotion to Genetic Technologist I.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in biology or related scientific field.
Experience in laboratory sciences desired but not required.
Laboratory personnel participating in licensure or certification maintenance programs must complete the number of continuing education hours prescribed by their licensing or certifying agency.
Technical laboratory personnel whose certification has been grandfathered and does not require participation in a certification maintenance program must complete at least twelve hours of continuing education annually.

Responsibilities

Handle, prepare, and process various specimens; learn to identify appropriate specimens for study, and methods of collection, preservation, and transport; learn the appropriate culture techniques for a variety of specimen types; understand the principles and techniques for harvesting cell cultures of human tissue for genetic testing; apply knowledge of cell cycle for various cell types and culture conditions; understand the principles and techniques of chromosome banding and staining; develop troubleshooting skills to obtain optimal banding and staining results.
Learn to maintain necessary records and laboratory database in logbooks and computers as related to specimens. Records pertinent laboratory data on the appropriate form or chart to ensure accurate and complete documentation of laboratory findings.
Learn to properly align all optical components of the microscope to guarantee that the lamp is centered, and the condenser and field diaphragm are properly adjusted for Kohler Illumination. Learn to select suitable metaphases for analysis and become proficient in the detection of numerical and structural abnormalities. Learn to accurately record complete documentation of analytical findings. Learn how to use GSL scanning system.
Learn to use specialized equipment for capture and enhancement of images at optimum resolution.
Attends in-services, reads professional literature, and participates in educational programs and activities to remain abreast of developments in the field of cytogenetics.
Complies with quality control policies and procedures to ensure that all aspects of laboratory operation are performed in accordance with accepted standards and applicable laws for clinical laboratories.
Establish good laboratory practice skills; learn to operate, clean and maintain all laboratory equipment and instruments needed to prepare reagents, stains, and media in accordance with laboratory protocol.
Learn to perform staining procedures for routine and specialized analysis.
Understand and perform universal precaution measures necessary for the handling of fresh body fluids.
Observes principles of sterile technique in carrying out daily responsibilities including the proper cleaning and sterilization of work surfaces.
Assist in maintaining an adequate stock of commonly used supplies.
Performs related responsibilities as required.