Molecular Biologist (VRDL - RGDS) (Biotech)

SUMMARY 

The Viral and Rickettsial Disease Laboratory (VRDL) is a seeking highly motivated Molecular Biologist to work within the Respiratory and Gastroenteric Diseases Section (RGDS) – COVIDNet Unit. In this role, the candidate will work with the Senior Molecular Biologist and other colleagues to onboard molecular methods (PCR) and Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) workflows that support the surveillance, diagnostics, and research efforts of the California Department of Public Health.

The Molecular Biologist will assist with developing and/or improving upon current methods for the detection of respiratory and GI viral pathogens in collaboration with the Senior Molecular Biologist and other scientist within the section.  In addition, this position will assist in the development and optimization of SOPs for a range of sequencing assays used in public health.  The ideal candidate should have a wide-ranging scientific background, hands-on experience in molecular and cellular biology, a comprehensive understanding of sequencing technologies, and familiarity in platforms such as Illumina.

The Molecular Biologist is expected to stay updated with scientific literature, contribute academically by drafting abstracts and manuscripts, offer guidance to other scientists in VRDL, participate in grant writing, provide training for workshops and seminars, and help other units as needed.

The position is in Richmond, CA.  

The hourly range for this position is $33.27 to $43.83 per hour depending on experience/qualifications. 

Must submit a resume with application.

Must be able to work flexible hours that may include weekends and holidays. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Assist in development and optimization of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for PCR and whole genome sequencing of viral pathogens.
• Collaborate with both internal and external partners.
• Assist with the enhancing and streamlining of tools for the efficient analysis and reporting of genomic data.
• Compliance with QA/QC policies and execute related activities including equipment maintenance, biosafety protocols, and chemical hygiene.
• Participate in quality management tasks, such as reviewing records and data logs, compiling QA reports, revising SOPs, and training.
• Stay updated with the latest scientific advancements, draft manuscripts, and participate in grant proposal writing.
• Offer scientific consultation to external and internal microbiologists and assist in training workshops.
• Assist with surveillance sample processing (aliquoting, nucleic acid extraction) as directed by the section/laboratory supervisor.
• Fulfill other assigned duties, including supporting different units during peak times.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS

• Scientific background in molecular and cellular biology
• Experience or proficiency in molecular biology techniques
• Knowledge and experience with laboratory work environments (BSL-2 minimum) and sterile technique are required
• Experience with standard precautions for working with potentially infectious clinical specimens, particularly working in class II BSC
• Familiarity with high-throughput laboratory automation
• Basic computer skills
• Ability to conduct and report on scientific experiments while maintaining careful attention to detail, safety, and good laboratory practices
• Strong communication skills, self-motivation, and proven ability to work independently and in cross-functional teams
• Excellent organizational, prioritization and planning skills to ensure projects are complete under established deadlines and timelines
• Demonstrated attention to detail

 Education/Experience

• Bachelor's degree in the field of molecular biology, genetics, systems biology, chemistry, or related fields with relevant molecular methods experience in PCR and/or NGS.

• At least 1 year of experience working with microorganisms and at least 1 year performing molecular methods such as PCR and WGS.

Other Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities

• Familiarity with Microsoft Office software, including Word, Excel, Access, Outlook and PowerPoint
• Familiarity with databases
• Ability to effectively communicate verbally and in writing
• Ability to work independently and adapt to varied work settings
• Ability to work effectively with a team of diverse individuals
• Ability to multi-task and work effectively under pressure

Certificates/Licenses

• Possession of a Public Health Microbiologist certificate or eligibility for the Public Health Microbiologist training program, preferred

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Stand: Frequently
• Walk: Frequently
• Sit: Frequently
• Handling / Fingering: Frequently
• Reach Outward: Occasionally
• Reach Above Shoulder: Occasionally
• Climb, Crawl, Kneel, Bend: Occasionally
• Lift / Carry: Occasionally - Up to 30 lbs
• Push/Pull: Occasionally - Up to 50 lbs
• See (Vision): Constantly
• Taste/ Smell: Not Applicable

KEY

• Not Applicable = Not required for essential functions
• Occasionally = (0 - 2 hrs/day)
• Frequently = (2+ - 5 hrs/day)
• Constantly = (5+ hrs/day)

 WORK ENVIRONMENT 

General office and laboratory setting, indoors, temperature controlled

EEOC STATEMENT 

It is the policy of Heluna Health to provide equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

See job description