Molecular Biologist III

About the role

The Molecular Biologist III position within the Department of State Health Services (DSHS) focuses on performing highly complex and advanced molecular testing to diagnose and detect viruses in clinical specimens. This role involves extracting nucleic acid, performing nucleic acid amplifications, and assisting with the development and implementation of new molecular and diagnostic techniques.

Responsibilities

• EJF 1: Develops and performs molecular biology work under the technical guidance of the Virology and Immunology Branch Manager and Clinical Virology Team Lead. Conducts analysis of specimens using advanced molecular methods for the diagnosis and/or detection of viruses including influenza, measles, mumps, MERS-CoV, Zika, chikungunya, and dengue in clinical samples.
• EJF 2: Verifies and reviews molecular biology test results, enters and validates results in the laboratory information system, and assists in drafting and reviewing standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• EJF 3: Investigates quality assurance problems, analyzes specimen and test data, and prepares solutions to problems.
• EJF 4: Consults with local health departments, state epidemiologists, and CDC partners regarding Clinical Virology laboratory submissions and results for molecular diagnostic testing.
• EJF 5: Analyzes specimen and test data to identify unusual patterns, evaluates test results, and assesses atypical test results.
• EJF 6: Researches new procedures, maintains current knowledge of literature, and participates in continuing education opportunities.
• EJF 7: Complies with DSHS Laboratory guidelines, assists in administrative duties, and participates in weekend, holiday, and after-hours testing as needed.

Requirements

Must have an earned bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in a chemical, physical, biological, or clinical laboratory science or medical technology from an accredited institution. Experience in a clinical laboratory diagnostic setting and molecular testing, including real-time RT-PCR, is required. College level courses in microbiology/virology/immunology and laboratory experience detecting and identifying viruses are preferred but not required.

Qualifications

Must be registered or licensed as per the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA ’88) Standards. No specific registrations or licenses are required for this position.

Skills

• Strong background in virology with a working knowledge of molecular biology principles and techniques.
• Knowledge of emerging molecular technologies.
• Knowledge of quality assurance and quality control functions and CLIA/CAP regulations.
• Knowledge of the validation process as required by CLIA/CAP.
• Knowledge of unidirectional workflow and aseptic techniques to reduce the potential for contamination.
• Operate both molecular and general laboratory equipment and use a computer and applicable software.
• Conduct advanced molecular analyses, interpret test results, prepare reports, and develop procedures.
• Troubleshoot technical problems, detect malfunctions in test protocols, and detect errors in transcribed results.
• Make recommendations and implement corrective actions.
• Organize daily workload, set priorities, and supervise the work of others.
• Teach molecular biology concepts and procedures and communicate technical instructions.
• Interact effectively with staff and work in harmony with other team members.
• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Interpret written protocols and follow procedures.
• Maintain positive customer relations.

Benefits

DSHS offers insurance coverage and other benefits available through the State of Texas Group Benefits Plan administered by the Employee Retirement System of Texas (ERS).

Pay

$5,434.39 - $6,249.55 monthly

Schedule

Regular Weekend Day Shift