DEPARTMENT OF STATE HEALTH SERVICES Hiring for Molecular Biologist III at AUSTIN, Texas Full Time

Job/Position DescriptionUnder the minimal supervision of the Newborn DNA Analysis Group Manager, uses expert knowledge to independently perform highly complex and highly specialized molecular genetic procedures to identify mutations causing cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease, medium chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency, galactosemia, spinal muscular atrophy, X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD), very long chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (VLCAD), and other NBS disorders using standard or developmental protocols. Responsible for independently performing specimen and reagent preparation, data analysis and interpretation, work list evaluation, result entry, release of final results, maintenance and troubleshooting of equipment, evaluating the quality of reagents, assisting in managing material resources, and other supporting work for the laboratory. Responsible for making significant decisions on assay acceptability and accuracy of laboratory tests on human specimens. Performs and reviews quality control for DNA analysis and utilizes expert working knowledge of all procedures to independently determine, troubleshoot, and release highly complex analytical test results ensuring that the analytic accuracy and continuity of testing are maintained. Conducts the monitoring and documentation of quality assurance. Serves as a senior molecular biologist authority and role model. Responsible for coordinating assignments, monitoring workload and staff, training personnel, and providing customer service. Evaluates current protocols, researches new procedures and provides recommendations. Participates in incorporation, evaluation, validation, and implementation of new processes, procedures and technologies. Actively participates in the safety program. Duties are independently performed with considerable latitude, adherence to standard protocol and with extensive use of scientific knowledge and independent judgment. Work hours/days and laboratory assignments may vary, all staff members will be required to work on Saturday as part of a rotating schedule. This position is eligible for shift differential in accordance with DSHS Laboratory Policy.Essential Job FunctionsAttends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.EJF 1. Plans and conducts highly complex advanced molecular genetic procedures including DNA extraction, electrophoresis, PCR, real-time PCR, RFLP analysis, DNA sequencing, and DNA sequence analysis following laboratory protocol guidelines for the identification of mutations causing cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease, medium chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency, galactosemia, spinal muscular atrophy, x-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD), very long chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency, and other NBS disorders. Uses technical knowledge to determine specimen acceptability. Completes all documentation with required information. Evaluates existing procedures, provides suggestions to improve the efficacy and implements approved changes. (35%)EJF 2. Evaluates and interprets highly complex laboratory data on human specimens and assigns final results. Uses expert knowledge to independently identify, investigate, interpret, assess, review, order retests and resolve problems with atypical test results to ensure the accuracy of the reports. Consults with upper level personnel when necessary. Reviews and releases the highly complex final test results using the laboratory information m https://jobshrportal.hhsc.state.tx.us/ENG/CareerPortal/job_profile.cfm?szOrderID=495104 Copy the URL in the preceding sentence to an Internet Explorer browser to apply to the job directly through the Texas Health and Human Services Career Portal.