Molecular Biologist III

Job Description:
Under limited supervision of the Virology and Immunology Branch Manager and under the technical guidance of the Clinical Virology Team Lead, performs highly complex (senior-level) and advanced molecular testing following standard or developmental protocols to identify viruses in clinical specimens using Biosafety Level 2 and 3 practices and procedures. Manages the progress of each specimen, ensuring that delays are avoided, and enters and validates results into the laboratory information system. Assists with the development and implementation of additional molecular and diagnostic techniques. Ensures standard protocols and proper quality controls are followed for all tests performed in the laboratory. Assists in evaluating the quality of reagents and in managing material resources. Consults with medical personnel/Epidemiologists regarding test application and interpretation. Trains individuals on molecular techniques. Serves as a senior Molecular Biologist for the Clinical Virology Team, assuming the duties of the Team Lead as required. Assumes additional duties as assigned. Duties are performed with considerable latitude to interpret standard protocol, with considerable use of initiative, scientific knowledge, and judgment.

Essential Job Functions:
Attends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.

EJF 1. Under the technical guidance of the Virology and Immunology Branch Manager and Clinical Virology Team Lead, develops and performs highly complex (senior-level) molecular biology work. Plans and conducts analysis of specimens using advanced molecular methods for the diagnosis and/or detection of viruses including but not limited to influenza, measles, mumps, Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV), Zika, chikungunya, and dengue in clinical (serum, urine, and other) samples. Processes clinical samples in accordance with current standard operating procedures and regulations. Extracts nucleic acid using both manual and automated extraction methods and performs nucleic acid amplifications using real-time and conventional PCR. Helps the Team Lead coordinate laboratory workflow with other members of the Clinical Virology Team. Coordinates all aspects of influenza laboratory testing surveillance activities including coordination with CDC to submit positive and unsubtypeable specimens to the National Influenza Reference Center (NIRC) or CDC as required. (45%)

EJF 2. Verifies and reviews molecular biology test results. Enters, reviews, and validates results in the laboratory information system and adds appropriate comments. Reviews quality control/assurance documentation to ensure established performance parameters are maintained throughout testing procedures. Assists Team Lead in drafting and reviewing standard operating procedures (SOPs). Updates computer data files, software programs, and SOPs as directed by the Team Lead/Branch Manager. May oversee the testing of others. Participates in a cross-training program as both a student and instructor by teaching and/or demonstrating molecular techniques to other laboratory personnel, volunteers or students and by documenting training for staff. Consults with local health departments, LRNs, state epidemiologists, and CDC partners concerning influenza surveillance submissions and other viral specimen submissions and results for diagnostic testing of both surveillance and outbreak specimens. Assists in providing consultation and services to internal and external customers regarding specimen requirements, test results, and interpretation. Answers questions regarding laboratory testing methods. (25%)

EJF 3. Investigates quality assurance problems and recommends and implements approved corrective actions. Analyzes specimen and test data to identify unusual patterns of either specimen submission or test results. Evaluates test results, reviews, and releases outgoing reports. Assesses atypical test results, consults with Team Lead and orders retesting as directed. Assists with the determination of circumstances surrounding an incorrect report and with the initiation of a corrective action to ensure accurate and consistent results are reported to customers. Initiates troubleshooting of diagnostic tests and instruments and completes routine adjustments as indicated by Team Lead. Proposes solutions to problems, implements approved changes according to direction from Team Lead. Evaluates daily quality control records, performs preventive maintenance on laboratory equipment, and ensure all records are updated daily. Prepares solutions, reagents, and other components as needed/assigned for influenza surveillance and other viral diagnostic testing. Ensures an accurate and updated inventory of the team’s unique supplies and reagents is available. (20%)

EJF 4. Researches new procedures and reports on their usefulness. Maintains current knowledge of literature, evaluates new procedures, and makes recommendations to improve or replace existing procedures. Coordinates and promotes development and review of new procedures in Clinical Virology. Performs evaluation/validation studies and presents data to Team Lead/Branch Manager. Documents all development work thoroughly. Reviews the literature on a regular basis and provides summaries to other employees of new techniques or research related to viral isolation/identification. Participates in continuing education opportunities on a regular basis including talks, satellite conferences, scientific conferences, or other appropriate opportunities to update and learn new techniques to be able to perform state of the art diagnostic work. (5%)

EJF 5. Based on the work area, consistently complies with DSHS Laboratory, local, state, and federal guidelines to ensure a safe functioning laboratory. Assists Team Leader and Branch Manager with administrative duties. Completes administrative forms and attends meetings, providing input for Clinical Virology. Performs other duties as assigned by the Team Leader/Branch Manager. Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency's obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or continuity of operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location. Participates in weekend, holiday, and after-hours testing as needed on a rotational basis. (5%)
Knowledge Skills Abilities:
Strong background in virology with a working knowledge of the principles and techniques used in molecular biology. Knowledge of emerging molecular technologies.

Skill in the operation of both molecular and general laboratory equipment and in the use of a computer and applicable software.

Ability to conduct advanced molecular analyses and tests, interpret molecular biology test results, prepare reports, and develop procedures.

Ability to troubleshoot technical problems, detect malfunctions in test protocols, and detect errors in transcribed results. Ability to make recommendations/implementations for corrective action.

Ability to integrate information from multiple sources to make decisions affecting specimen testing.

Ability to organize daily workload and set priorities to routine work.

Ability to work independently and make technical decisions based on professional knowledge and experience.

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.

Ability to plan and prioritize assignments and supervise the work of others.

Ability to teach molecular biology concepts and procedures and communicate technical instructions.

Ability to interact effectively with staff and work in harmony with other team members.

Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Ability to interpret written protocols and follow procedures.

Ability to maintain positive customer relations.

---