Molecular Biologist III

TX-HHSC-DSHS-DFPS • Austin, TX

2d • Onsite

About The Position

Under limited supervision of the Mycobacteriology/Mycology Branch Manager and the TB Reference Team Lead, following standard protocols, performs highly complex and advanced molecular testing and typing using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). Performs DNA/RNA extractions for PCR and Whole Genome Sequencing of M. tuberculosis complex and Candida auris specimens and isolates in a BSL3 laboratory. Performs MALDI-TOF testing for mycobacterial and fungal specimens. As a senior Molecular Biologist, performs administrative functions necessary for Team effectiveness in the absence of the Team Lead, as assigned. Monitors daily work schedule; assists Team Lead to prioritize and to make work assignments and to resolve workload problems. Consults and coordinates with Team Lead to assure that the Team QA Plan is implemented and followed. 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. Initiates troubleshooting of molecular tests and instruments and completes routine adjustments as directed by Team Lead/Branch Manager. Assists with the development and implementation of additional molecular and epidemiological techniques. Performs presentations and training as arranged. Completes other duties as assigned. Duties are performed with adherence to standard protocol but with considerable latitude to use scientific knowledge, initiative, and judgment.

Requirements

• An earned bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in a chemical, physical, biological or clinical laboratory science, or medical technology from an accredited institution and at least 1 year of experience in high complexity laboratory testing, required.
• Molecular biology lab experience, required.
• Knowledge of Microbiology and molecular biology.
• Knowledge of Automated and non-automated microbiology laboratory analysis systems including skill in the operation of molecular laboratory equipment and in the use of a computer and applicable software.
• Knowledge of Quality assurance functions and systems.
• Knowledge of Unidirectional workflow and aseptic techniques to reduce the potential for contamination.
• Skill in manipulating complex laboratory equipment with speed, accuracy and safety.
• Ability to conduct advanced molecular analyses and tests, interpret molecular biology test results, prepare reports, and develop procedures.
• Ability to perform manipulation of clinical specimens and cultures with speed, accuracy, and safety while using aseptic techniques under a biological safety cabinet.
• Ability to communicate molecular biology concepts and technical instructions and interact effectively with staff.
• Ability to plan, assign, and monitor the work of others.
• Ability to recognize and solve work area problems.
• Ability to maintain work area instruments.
• Ability to work independently and make technical decisions based on professional knowledge and experience.
• Ability to use a computer for word processing, spreadsheet and database analysis, and results reporting.
• Ability to conduct process improvement investigations.
• Ability to review and make recommendations based on study data.

Nice To Haves

• Clinical mycobacteriology lab experience, preferred.
• Knowledge of mycology, preferred.
• Biological safety cabinet experience, preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develops and performs highly complex (senior-level) molecular biology work in a BSL3 laboratory.
• Performs nucleic acid extractions for PCR and Whole Genome Sequencing for the detection and identification of M. tuberculosis complex species and Candida auris in human clinical samples and cultures.
• Processes specimens or cultures with various extraction methods following validation study and approved protocols.
• Performs MALDI-TOF testing on mycobaterial and fungal isolates.
• Performs administrative functions necessary for Team effectiveness in the absence of the Team Lead.
• Monitors daily work schedule; assists Team Lead to prioritize work, make work assignments, and resolve workload problems.
• Works in harmony with other molecular biologists to complete testing effectively.
• Helps to coordinate workflow within the team and with other teams.
• Coordinates with Team Lead to assure that critical results are reported by telephone or email as appropriate.
• Provides consultation regarding test results with DSHS internal and external customers.
• Consults and coordinates with Team Lead to assure that the Team QA Plan is implemented and followed.
• Investigates quality assurance problems; recommends and implements approved corrective actions.
• Ensures standard protocols and proper quality control (QC) are followed for tests performed in the lab.
• Assists in evaluating the quality of reagents and in managing material resources.
• Initiates troubleshooting of molecular tests/instruments and completes adjustments as directed by Team Lead/Branch Manager.
• Evaluates daily QC records, performs preventive maintenance on laboratory equipment, and ensures records are updated daily.
• Prepares solutions or reagents as needed/assigned.
• Ensures an up-to-date inventory of unique supplies and reagents is available.
• Analyzes test data to identify unusual patterns of either specimen submission or test results.
• Evaluates results, reviews, and releases reports.
• Assesses atypical test results, consults with Team Lead/Branch Manager and orders re-tests as directed.
• Assists Team Lead/Branch Manager with the root cause analysis of an incorrect report and the initiation of a corrective action to ensure accurate and consistent results are reported to customers.
• Assists with the performance of antimicrobial susceptibility tests, specifically minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) determinations for bacterial or fungal isolates.
• Assists with development and implementation of molecular and epidemiological techniques.
• Researches current scientific literature, selects, interprets, and shares information for adaptation in the lab.
• Performs evaluation/validation studies and presents data to Team Lead/Branch Manager.
• Assists in drafting and reviewing standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Updates computer data files, software programs, and SOPs as directed by Team Lead/Branch Manager.
• Participates in a cross-training as both a student and an instructor by teaching and/or demonstrating molecular techniques to other laboratory personnel, volunteers or students and documenting training for staff.
• Completes other duties as assigned.
• Actively participates and/or serves in a supporting role to meet the agency's obligations for disaster response and /or recovery or continuity of operations (COOP) activation.

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