Forensic Scientist-DNA Analyst

About the role

The position serves as a member of a dynamic team to complete sample processing, analysis, and reporting of casework items. This includes performing DNA analysis on samples with diverse matrices and various levels of template DNA, preparing forensic reports, and participating in validation studies.

Responsibilities

• Operate as a member of a dynamic team to process high-quality casework in a timely and efficient manner.
• Perform lab work wearing appropriate PPE and practicing good contamination control techniques.
• Adhere to proper handling and safeguarding of DNA samples and data.
• Extract DNA using multiple extraction procedures, quantify on a Real-Time PCR instrument, amplify using current, validated amplification kits, and analyze samples on current genetic analyzer platforms.
• Utilize and maintain a variety of modern scientific equipment such as Real-Time PCR, thermocyclers, and genetic analyzers.
• Make sound scientific decisions in regard to sample processing and results.
• Perform statistical analysis and interpretation of DNA results from diverse matrices and DNA template level for both single source and mixture results using manual and probabilistic genotyping interpretation methods.
• Prepare forensic reports.
• Participate in technical reviews on casework.
• Complete assignments within the designated timeframe.
• Organize assigned activities to maximize efficiency, and alert management when technical issues or schedule delays arise.
• Incorporate and expand quality assurance principles into laboratory operations.
• Participate in validation studies of new DNA methodology as well as established methods and procedures.

Requirements

• BS in biological sciences or a related field with 3+ years full-time laboratory experience or MS degree with equivalent experience.
• Prior experience working in a forensic laboratory is required.
• Read, write, and communicate fluently in English.
• Possess the ability to calculate statistics associated with casework.
• Possess sound reasoning skills and regularly show ability to follow detailed standard instructions, with great attention to detail and guidance from company policy manuals and forensic SOPs.
• Possess a working knowledge of Office 365; specifically, Outlook, Excel, and Word; instrument software (i.e., AB7500, AB3500xL); and data analysis software associated with DNA testing (i.e., GeneMapper ID-X, STRmix).
• Communicate technical information to non-technical audiences.
• Work and communicate effectively in a team environment.
• Ability to work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
• Successfully perform work independently and as a member of a team.

Qualifications

• Must be willing and able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance with CI Polygraph.
• Candidates with an active security clearance will receive preference.

Skills

• Ability to communicate technical information to non-technical audiences.
• Work and communicate effectively in a team environment.
• Ability to work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
• Successfully perform work independently and as a member of a team.

Benefits

Not specified.

Pay

Not specified.

Schedule

Not specified.