Medical Lab Scientist 2- Esoteric Coagulation

Located in Nashville, Tennessee, Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC) operates at a global crossroads of teaching, discovery, and patient care. VUMC is a community of individuals dedicated to changing the world through expertise, knowledge expansion, and unique contributions. Vanderbilt Health fosters an environment where everyone can thrive, valuing individuality and encouraging continuous improvement.

About the Role

The Esoteric Coagulation Laboratory seeks a highly motivated and dedicated medical laboratory scientist for a challenging yet rewarding career in special coagulation. The laboratory provides a comprehensive menu of complex specialized coagulation assays requiring meticulous attention to detail. Testing methods include highly automated and manual techniques such as ELISA, FRET, and semi-automated gel electrophoresis for von Willebrand multimers. The lab also performs platelet function testing, including platelet function screens, platelet aggregation, and Serotonin Release assays for heparin-induced thrombocytopenia.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine and complex clinical pathology testing and instrument management, ensuring accurate recording and timely delivery of results.
• Apply clinical knowledge to achieve accurate test results, contributing to quality patient care outcomes.
• Provide patient-focused care through accurate performance of tests in pre-analytic, analytic, and post-analytic stages.
• Conduct qualitative and quantitative analytical procedures, including reagent preparation and quality control, following required protocols.
• Demonstrate knowledge of techniques, principles, and instruments, and their interrelationships, as well as physiological conditions affecting test results.
• Participate in the development and validation of new assays and analyzers.
• Engage in in-lab educational presentations and continuing education.
• Maintain documentation to meet state and national accreditation requirements.
• Communicate effectively with colleagues and clients.
• Work every third weekend and occasional overtime as required.

Requirements

• Basic knowledge of coagulation, either clinical or academic.
• Precise and reproducible pipetting skills for assays with multiple dilution steps.
• Ability to adapt to a flexible working environment to meet client needs.
• Good communication skills and the ability to interact with colleagues and clients.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree (required).
• Less than 1 year of relevant work experience.
• Certification as a Medical Laboratory Scientist from the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or Medical Technologist from American Medical Technologists (AMT).
• Licensure under the Tennessee Medical Laboratory Act.

Skills

• Data Analysis (Novice): Navigates established technology environments to locate, validate, extract, and format data. Modifies and runs queries and standard reports. Identifies data values and sources, familiar with data modeling.
• Quality Assurance (Novice): Analyzes and evaluates work processes for improvement. Participates in establishing and monitoring quality standards.
• Equipment Maintenance (Novice): Maintains equipment, products, or systems, ensuring sufficient parts inventory.
• Diagnostic Testing (Novice): Proficient in delivering diagnostic testing results with appropriate knowledge and training.
• Mentoring & Coaching (Novice): Provides constructive training, mentoring, and feedback to others.

Benefits

This role offers a comprehensive benefits package that may include health, disability, retirement, and/or wellness offerings to enhance well-being and professional growth.