Molecular Biologist III (NGS Technology)

TX-HHSC-DSHS-DFPS • Austin, TX

1d • $5,434 - $5,978 • Onsite

About The Position

Under the technical guidance of the Group Manager/Team Lead, performs highly complex (senior-level) molecular biology work. Works under limited supervision, with considerable latitude for the use of scientific knowledge initiative, independent judgment, and experience to conduct testing of specimens using next-generation sequencing (NGS) by processing wastewater and other types of specimens in accordance with laboratory protocols and regulations, and develops new protocols as needed. Researches on new NGS methods in scientific literature, verifies and validates new sequencing methodologies. Summarizes data, documents findings, and prepares reports as needed. Assumes additional duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Knowledge of molecular biology principles and techniques such as Next Generation Sequencing, bioinformatics, and PCR.
• Knowledge of quality assurance, quality control, and CLIA/CAP regulations in a laboratory.
• Knowledge of validation processes as required by CLIA/CAP.
• Knowledge of unidirectional workflow and aseptic techniques to reduce the potential for contamination.
• Skill in the operation of molecular as well as general laboratory equipment and in the use of a computer and applicable software.
• Ability to interpret written protocols and to develop procedures.
• Ability to conduct advanced molecular analyses and tests, to interpret molecular biology test results, and to prepare reports.
• Ability to plan and prioritize assignments.
• Ability to detect malfunctions in test protocols and errors in transcribed results; make recommendations /implementations for corrective action.
• Ability to teach molecular biology concepts and procedures.
• Ability to communicate technical instructions and interact effectively with staff.
• Ability to maintain positive customer relations.
• Ability to work independently and make technical decisions based on professional knowledge and experience.
• Must possess a valid Class C Texas driver’s license, or equivalent license from another state.
• Have an earned bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in a chemical, physical, biological, clinical laboratory science, or medical technology from an accredited institution; or experience and education may be substituted as defined by the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA ’88) Standards.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with molecular biology and microbiology principles and techniques such as NGS and PCR, is preferred but not required.
• Experience with bioinformatics is preferred but not required.
• Experience with quality assurance, quality control, and CLIA/CAP regulations in a laboratory and experience in evaluating data, interpreting test results, and taking corrective actions if needed, is preferred but not required.
• Experience in using a computer for word processing, spreadsheet and database analysis and results reporting, is preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

• Conducts testing involving nucleic acid technologies including working with RNA and DNA, performing RT-PCR, cDNA generation, Tiling PCR, library preparation and sequencing using short and long read sequencing chemistry to identify and track pathogens of interest for wastewater surveillance in accordance with laboratory protocols and regulations.
• Researches current scientific literature on new wastewater testing methods and techniques, selects, interprets, and shares information for adaption in the lab. Performs evaluation, verification, and/or validation studies testing and optimizing new methods and summarizes data. This would include researching and testing commercially available testing kits or designing primer sets to target pathogens of interest. Assists in providing consultation and services to internal and external customers regarding specimen requirements, test results, and interpretation. Answers questions regarding laboratory testing methods. Assists in drafting, reviewing, and developing standard operating procedures (SOPs). Updates computer data files, software programs, and SOPs as directed.
• Checks quality of NGS data and results; reviews, evaluates, summarizes results and prepares reports. Assesses atypical rest results and retests as directed. Determines circumstances surrounding an incorrect report and the initiation of corrective action to ensure accurate and consistent results are reported. Consults with local, state, and national partners concerning results.
• Investigates quality assurance problems with wastewater testing results, recommends and implements approved corrective actions. Performs troubleshooting of tests and instruments and completes routine adjustments. Evaluates daily quality control records, performs preventative maintenance on laboratory equipment, and ensures all records are updated daily. Prepares solutions, reagents and other components for testing as needed/assigned.
• Participates in cross-training as both a student and trainer by learning or teaching and/or demonstrating molecular techniques and instrument usage to other laboratory personnel, volunteers, or students, and documenting training for staff and fellow team members.
• Performs other duties as assigned. Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency's obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or continuity of operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location. Based on your work area, consistently comply with DSHS Laboratory, local, state, and federal guidelines to ensure a safe functioning laboratory.

Benefits

• insurance coverage and other benefits available through the State of Texas Group Benefits Plan administered by the Employee Retirement System of Texas (ERS)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior