Microbiologist

About the role

The purpose of this position is to coordinate and perform a wide range of microbiological examinations and analyses, including culture, biochemical tests, EIA, serotyping, PCR, and WGS of clinical specimens for the isolation and identification of enteric bacteria such as Salmonella, E.coli, Shigella, Vibrio, Listeria, and Campylobacter. The incumbent will also document all quality control and quality assurance activities according to CLIA regulations.

Responsibilities

• Conduct examinations of samples and/or reference samples for analyses such as molecular detection or isolation and identification of microorganisms/toxins or their antigens/nucleic acids.
• Follow the laboratory's procedures for specimen handling and processing, test analyses, reporting, and maintaining records of patient test results.
• Extract nucleic acids from specimens, isolates, and samples via a variety of manual and automated methods.
• Utilize molecular techniques such as PCR, sequencing, MALDI-TOF, and WGS.
• Evaluate, interpret, and validate laboratory results and report findings.
• Maintain laboratory record system of submitted samples and specimens and their possible referral.
• Conduct quality control checks on laboratory methods, materials, and equipment in strict adherence to the laboratory's quality control policies.
• Maintain an inventory of laboratory supplies and order as needed to ensure testing needs are met.
• Aid in the preparation of epidemiological and/or statistical reports from data compiled on a daily, weekly, monthly, or annual basis.
• Maintain competency in all trained areas.
• Perform all related work as required.

Qualifications

• Extensive knowledge of the principles, theories, and practices of microbiology and related sub-specialties.
• Specialized knowledge of current scientific methods and testing procedures and the ability to apply them when seeking solutions to public health laboratory problems.
• Specialized knowledge of and ability to use a full range of standard technical equipment, complex scientific apparatus, and automated techniques of analysis.
• Extensive knowledge of laboratory safety practices and principles.
• Awareness of state and federal laws, rules, regulations, and policies concerning the program area (i.e. CLIA).
• Ability to meet requirements for personnel certification as a technologist pursuant to the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act (CLIA).
• Effective communication skills, both verbally and in writing, and the ability to maintain productive working relationships.
• Ability to satisfactorily participate in proficiency testing programs and recognize QA problems.
• Ability to compile, analyze, evaluate, and prepare laboratory reports.