Molecular Biologist III

Texas Health & Human Services Commission • Austin, TX

2d • $5,434 - $5,978 • Onsite

About The Position

Under limited supervision of the Genetic Sequencing Branch Group Manager, and Team Lead, follows standard or developmental protocols, performs highly complex and advanced molecular testing and typing using Next Generation Sequencing (NGS). Performs Bioinformatics analysis on NGS data. Assists with the development and implementation of additional molecular and epidemiological techniques. Ensures standard protocols and proper quality controls are followed for all the tests performed in the lab. Assists in evaluating the quality of reagents and in managing material resources. Trains individuals on molecular techniques and serves as a Senior Molecular biologist within the laboratory; assumes additional duties as assigned. Duties are performed with significant latitude to interpret standard protocols, with significant use of scientific knowledge and judgment.

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.
• 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.
• Experience with bioinformatics.
• 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.
• Experience in using a computer for word processing, spreadsheet and database analysis and results reporting.

Responsibilities

• Under the technical guidance of the Group Manager/Team Lead, performs highly complex (senior-level) molecular biology work.
• Plans and conducts analysis of specimens using NGS by processing specimens in accordance with current protocols and regulations.
• Performs bioinformatics analysis on NGS data using various bioinformatics software or pipelines.
• Investigates quality assurance problems, recommends, and implements approved corrective actions.
• Initiates troubleshooting of tests and instruments and completes routine adjustments as indicated by Team Lead/Manager.
• Proposes solutions to problems, implements approved changes according to direction from Team Lead/Group Manager.
• Evaluates daily quality control records, performs preventive maintenance on laboratory equipment, and ensures all records are updated daily.
• Prepares solutions, reagents and other components as needed/assigned.
• Ensures an accurate and updated inventory of team's unique supplies and reagents is available.
• Analyzes specimen and test data to identify unusual patterns of either specimen submission or test results.
• Evaluates test results, reviews, and releases outgoing reports.
• Assesses atypical test results, consults with Team Lead/Group Manager and orders retesting as directed.
• Assists Team Lead/Manager with determination of circumstances surrounding an incorrect report and with the initiation of corrective action to ensure accurate and consistent results are reported to customers.
• Researches current scientific literature, selects, interprets, and shares information for adaptation in the lab.
• Performs evaluation/validation studies and presents data to Team Lead/Manager.
• 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 Team Lead/Manager in drafting and reviewing standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Updates computer data files, software programs, and SOPs as directed by Team Lead/Manager.
• Participates in a cross-training program as both a student and instructor by teaching and/or demonstrating molecular techniques to other laboratory personnel, volunteers or students and documenting training for staff.
• Performs other duties as assigned by the Team Leader/Manager.
• 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.
• 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