Molecular Technologist

Oregon Health & Science University•Portland, OR

15h

About The Position

This Molecular Technologist performs high-complexity clinical molecular testing to support the Knight Diagnostic Laboratories’ (KDL) precision medicine and translational research mission. This position plays a key role in developing and validating new clinical assays while also performing routine testing as needed. The Molecular Technologist will conduct wet bench procedures and data analysis using a variety of molecular platforms, including but not limited to next-generation sequencing (NGS), digital/RQ-PCR, etc. The role requires a strong understanding of molecular biology principles and techniques, as well as familiarity with laboratory operations under CAP and CLIA regulations. The ideal candidate will possess in-depth knowledge of molecular laboratory terminology, instrumentation, and safety protocols, along with demonstrated experience in method validation, assay troubleshooting, and quality control processes. This position demands a high level of precision, the ability to follow and develop detailed standard operating procedures (SOPs), and strong analytical and problem-solving skills. The technologist must be self-driven, capable of managing multiple projects simultaneously, and committed to meeting project timelines within a collaborative, multidisciplinary team environment. By ensuring the highest standards of testing accuracy and reliability, the Molecular Technologist directly contributes to delivering high-quality diagnostic results that inform patient care and support the overall mission of the Knight Cancer Institute to advance cancer diagnosis and treatment through innovation in molecular pathology.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a biological science AND completion of a training program or one year of experience performing molecular techniques; MT or MLS certification preferred OR An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience; MT or MLS certification preferred.
Ability to complete time-sensitive tasks according to protocols
Ability to prioritize multiple tasks at one time
Must have excellent written and verbal communication skills, as well as superb analytical and organizational skills
Ability to work independently and as part of a team while being collaborative in resolving problems
Ability to use tact and diplomacy to maintain effective working relationships

Nice To Haves

MS degree in biological sciences AND MT or MLS certification with 2-3 years of clinical molecular laboratory experience preferred
Next-generation sequencing wet bench and data analysis; clinical laboratory throughput and new clinical test validation
Oncology experience

Responsibilities

Performs high-complexity clinical molecular testing
Develops and validates new clinical assays
Conducts wet bench procedures and data analysis using molecular platforms such as NGS and digital/RQ-PCR
Follows and develops detailed standard operating procedures (SOPs)
Manages multiple projects simultaneously
Meets project timelines within a collaborative team environment
Ensures the highest standards of testing accuracy and reliability

Benefits

Medical, dental and vision coverage at no or low cost to employees
Covered 100% for full-time employees and 88% for dependents
Several retirement plans to choose from with contributions from OHSU
104 hours of vacation time per year (increases over time)
96 hours of sick leave a year (prorated for part-time employees)
Commuter subsidies
Tuition reimbursement
Access to group life insurance, disability insurance and other supplemental benefits
Annual Raises
Growth/Development Opportunities
Employee discounts to local and major businesses