Microbiologist IV

Microbiologist IV

The Microbiologist IV will provide technical and scientific support for the Biotechnology Core Facility Branch (BCFB) Laboratories within DCSLR to support Genomic Sequencing and associated genomic analyses.

Major duties and responsibilities include:

• Perform and monitor genomic sequencing library preparation and analysis using robotics and Illumina, Pac Bio, and Oxford Nanopore sequencers during laboratory surge events.
• Develop and maintain a system for tracking specimens as they are processed by the laboratory.
• Perform optical mapping analyses and associated procedures including DNA isolation and quality control. Monitor the maintenance and repair of laboratory equipment with internal and external partners to make sure it is completed on time.
• Prepare sequencing project and assist with gathering quotes and market research for preparing equipment acquisitions packages.
• Schedule and set up agenda and organize meetings of Technology Think Tank (TTT).
• Conduct process improvement initiatives and track impact over time.
• Report performance metrics on routine activities and research projects to leadership.
• Use knowledge of molecular biology to document and implement technical protocols and standard operating procedures.
• Prepare documentation for ordering laboratory reagents.
• Collect, analyze, and present laboratory performance data for review by branch chief and team leads monthly.
• Conduct informatics literature investigations of molecular technologies and their applications in infectious diseases research and public health.
• Conduct marketing of BCFB services to CDC investigators.
• Conduct quarterly routine customer feedback surveys.

Minimum qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in microbiology, biology, chemistry, basic medical science, or environmental laboratory science, or
• 5-10 years of equivalent experience

Required:

• Experience working in diverse research, development, and production laboratories
• Experience working on projects from inception to completion including data presentation in scientific meetings and peer-reviewed publications
• Experience setting up and testing/validating new state-of-the-art molecular biology and molecular assay equipment and platforms

Desirable:

• Previous experience working in a similar role
• Knowledge of laboratory quality systems, cell culture, and growing/handling viruses in BSL-2/-3 environments
• Knowledge of molecular biology/virology, development, and production, molecular biology equipment and platforms
• Knowledge of quality systems and scientific processes of PCR, pyrosequencing, and DNA/RNA/Protein-based assays
• Knowledge of equipment maintenance, calibration, validation, and basic statistical analyses of errors in measurements
• Knowledge of biological safety requirements, handling of clinical specimens, and aseptic techniques; knowledge of techniques in molecular virology and molecular biology; working knowledge of bacterial molecular and cellular biology

Language skills:

• The candidate must possess excellent oral and written communication skills in English.

Requirement:
Must be a United States citizen or permanent resident or have authorization for employment in the United States.

Salary:
Commensurate with qualifications and experience.