Scientist I - Microbiology

Texas A&M University System•Canyon, TX

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

Working at TVMDL Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (TVMDL) is an integral part of the Texas A&M University System (TAMUS). It consists of four lab locations spread across Texas; two full-service laboratories located in Canyon and College Station and two poultry laboratories in Center and Gonzales. TVMDL is the only state agency entirely dedicated to protecting animal and public health through diagnostic testing. TVMDL is a state-of-the-art veterinary diagnostic laboratory that collects hundreds of data points concerning veterinary diagnostics and population health each day. TVMDL is a state agency under the TAMUS umbrella that serves the veterinary community and is an independent entity from the TAMU Vet School and College of Veterinary Medicine. Position-specific Information: This position requires a pre-exposure rabies vaccination series; TVMDL will cover all costs. This position is required to work onsite during normal business hours M-F 8 am – 5 pm, but participate in flex scheduling by working 9 am - 6 pm. Upon adequate training, technicians in this section are required to participate in a Saturday rotation with fellow staff members. This position is eligible for the partially remote alternative work location (PRAWL) program for a maximum of 16 hours per week after 6 months of service. This position is eligible for visa sponsorship. Job Description Summary The Scientist I - Microbiology, under general direction, performs routine and non-routine, complex diagnostic assays using state of the art equipment and techniques with minimal technical supervision. Interprets test results, communicates with clients and collaborates with colleagues. May teach/train/mentor Technicians in diagnostic techniques. May oversee the maintenance of the physical area within the laboratory. Assists in implementing new technologies and diagnostic capabilities.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree or higher in a related field or any equivalent combination of training and experience.
Two years of related experience.
Pre-exposure rabies vaccination series
Work onsite during normal business hours M-F 8 am – 5 pm, but participate in flex scheduling by working 9 am - 6 pm.
Participate in a Saturday rotation with fellow staff members.
Closed-toed shoes and long pants are required attire for the Laboratory environment.
Security-sensitive position requiring a criminal history investigation.
Export-control authorization prior to starting employment.

Nice To Haves

Two+ years technical experience in scientific research, clinical, experimental or diagnostic work.
Experience working within a quality assurance and safety program.
Independently report laboratory results, troubleshoot routine technical and scientific problems and recommend solutions.
Able to understand more advanced computer software programs, including programs for data analysis, statistical analysis, graphing, etc.

Responsibilities

Oversees sample processing and preparation performed by Technicians, providing training and correction when necessary. May perform complex sample extraction and/or preparation techniques per kit inserts and SOPs. Responsible for samples collected/cataloged for assay research and validation.
Participates in routine diagnostic testing, including filling in for Technicians when necessary. Prepares reagents, standards and controls as needed. Troubleshoots complex assays or instrument problems by recognizing sources of possible errors and implementing steps for resolution of errors or process improvements. Ability to implement non-routine assays. Proficient in relevant tests run at the section. Participates in NAHLN, USDA, and Vet-LIRN programs when relevant to the discipline. Performs a variety of testing for diagnostic purposes, USDA regulatory diseases, and USDA-Surveillance programs.
May review and release results for tests performed by Technician staff. Interprets results that require complex subjective evaluation. Reviews and makes adjustments to observations, results and measurements by Technicians when scientifically appropriate.
Communicates test results, interpretations, recommendations, and answers complex questions. Interacts with clients in the identification and development of new assays to benefit TVMDL and its clients. Participates in meetings with industry representatives to discuss and design research efforts.
Leads by example in regard to quality assurance and safety activities amongst Technicians. Assists section leadership in resolving issues of noncompliance and nonconformance. Assists section managers with audits and visits by external clientele and agencies. Responsible for safe handling and disposal of hazardous chemicals when relevant.
Serves as subject matter expert for one or more assays, protocols or instruments used in routine laboratory testing. Writes and/or edits SOPs for routine procedures. When needed, serves as document editor for SOPs, procedures, forms or other documents related to section protocols.
Assists in new assay development and validation, including test development, instrument configuration and documentation of assay protocols to meet the diagnostic testing needs of TVMDL and TVMDL clients.
Responsible for ensuring instrumentation is calibrated, maintenance is performed and documented, and all technical aspects are in proper working order. Responsible for quality control monitoring of routine laboratory instruments and equipment, including but not limited to thermometers, pipettes, eye wash stations, etc. Ensures appropriate stocking and inventory for supplies, reagents and chemicals.
Coordinates paperwork associated with infectious agents identified and/or shipped from TVMDL. Serves as a liaison with other testing sections to resolve accessioning, sample, or other paperwork issues associated with diagnostic cases. May recommend, assist in drafting and aid in implementing laboratory policies and procedures.
Mentors and provides technical training to Technicians. Successfully completes proficiency testing in all assays performed within the section. Assists section leadership in designing, administering and evaluating proficiency panels.
Assists Lab Supervisor, Section Head, and/or Assistant Section Head in oversight of technical staff performing routine testing.
Collaborates with colleagues in other sections, TVMDL locations and other veterinary diagnostic laboratories across the country in development and pursuit of scientific advancement. Participates in industry recognized meetings and affiliations to gain knowledge within the relevant scientific disciplines and industries.
Work shall be performed with adherence to federal, state, Texas A&M University System, and TVMDL safety rules, regulations, policies and procedures. Performs work in such a way as to not expose others or self to hazards that are avoidable by reasonable and approved methods. Works in conjunction with Diagnostic Services and Marketing to actively promote new or modified tests, TVMDL services or other client-education topics by writing and/or editing copy, speaking at conferences or meetings, or participating in TVMDL-sponsored exhibit shows. Performs other duties as assigned.

Benefits

health, dental, vision, and life insurance programs for employees and their family
generous retirement plans
Employee Assistance Program
Employee Wellness Program
flexible spending accounts
paid holiday, sick, and vacation leave
educational reimbursement plan
discounted diagnostic testing, veterinary care, and pet supplies
formal career ladder for advancement
continuing education opportunities
overtime or compensatory time may be earned