R&D Molecular Diagnostics Technician (Fountain Valley, CA)

ANTAGENE•Fountain Valley, CA

2d•$74,000 - $93,000•Onsite

About The Position

The R&D Molecular Diagnostics Technician performs molecular diagnostic protocols, troubleshoots escalated diagnostic cases, supports continuous improvement, and develops quality-control criteria for novel assays. The role is highly dynamic and interactive in an innovative molecular diagnostics R&D environment, requiring a proactive, solution-oriented approach. The position performs and analyzes molecular techniques including nucleic acid extraction, real-time PCR (qPCR), digital droplet PCR (ddPCR), array technologies, sequencing, and other molecular protocols. It designs and conducts experiments to investigate issues involving reagents, tests, protocols, and assay design; investigates escalated clinical cases and identifies new genotypes; creates QC criteria for new assays and reagent lots; and conducts reagent stability studies. Additional duties include preparing color compensation kit reagents, reviewing experiments across laboratories, supporting protocol transitions to QA and manufacturing, maintaining QA records, performing statistical analyses, and maintaining equipment and laboratory operations. The role works with colleagues across departments, cross-trains in multiple specialties, follows SOPs and safety and quality procedures, and contributes to laboratory efficiency and quality. The work is performed in a laboratory with potential biohazards and hazardous chemicals, mitigated through mandatory PPE. The position may require travel up to 25% and extended hours.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Molecular Biology, Biology, Molecular Sciences, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Immunology, or a related science field.
Minimum 1–3 years of PCR-related laboratory experience.
1–3 years of quality assurance experience.
Laboratory skills and experience designing and conducting experiments, interpreting data, and troubleshooting molecular assays and instruments.
General science background, including cellular biology, basic nucleic acid biochemistry, and biology of disease.
Understanding of molecular design.
Analytical skills relevant to scientific and laboratory activities.
Attention to detail and problem-solving abilities.
Organization and ability to multitask in a fast-paced R&D environment.
Ability to work independently and as part of an interactive team.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Positive, proactive, solution-oriented attitude.
Knowledge of Good Clinical Practice (GCP) and Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), as appropriate.
Personal computer skills, strong typing ability, and proficiency with Microsoft Office, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
Ability to stand continuously for up to two hours; extend and reach with the hands and arms; and use hands and fingers.
Occasional bending, kneeling, stooping, or crouching; ability to lift, move, and carry up to 50 pounds when required.
Close vision, color vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
Ability to communicate verbally in English by phone and in person.
Ability to travel up to 25% of the time.

Nice To Haves

Graduate degree in Molecular Biology, Biology, Cell & Molecular Biology, Immunology, or a related science field.

Responsibilities

Follow and perform protocols for various molecular diagnostic techniques.
Perform nucleic acid extraction, emphasizing molecular diagnostic testing.
Perform and analyze results from qPCR, ddPCR, array technologies, sequencing protocols, and other molecular protocols.
Design and conduct experiments to investigate reagents, tests, protocols, and molecular assay design issues.
Support continuous improvement by investigating escalated clinical cases and identifying new genotypes.
Create QC criteria for novel molecular assays and new reagent lots.
Prepare color compensation kit reagents and review color compensation experiments from multiple laboratories.
Assist with transitioning R&D protocols to QA and manufacturing departments.
Maintain the QA database and filing system.
Perform statistical analysis of data, including monitoring ISC QC failures and QuanPCR rates.
Establish reagent stability by designing and conducting stability studies.
Evaluate and report results to a supervisor using appropriate judgment.
Perform equipment maintenance and follow laboratory procedures and quality-control and calibration practices.
Enter samples into the physical central sample collection and computer database.
Partner with associates across departments to support shared business goals.
Cross-train and develop knowledge of multiple specialties within the department or laboratory.
Follow applicable SOPs, including safety and quality procedures.
Maintain a clean and organized work area and laboratory space.
Monitor supply inventory and restock as needed.
Participate in improving laboratory efficiency, quality, and cooperation.
Consult senior peers when troubleshooting problems.
Participate in enterprise initiatives and special projects, and perform other assigned duties.
Maintain reliable attendance and adhere to attendance-related policies and expectations.
Travel up to 25% of the time when required.