Molecular Biologist

UC Davis Molecular Biologist

Salary or Pay Range: $31.23 - $50.24 (departmental budgeted salary range: $31.23 - 35.16 /hr., commensurate with educational background and relevant working experience)

Under general supervision, responsible for molecular diagnostic testing and laboratory technical support in the Bacteriology Section including identification and characterization of bacterial, protozoal and fungal pathogens using Real Time PCR, Standard PCR, and/or DNA sequencing. Assist with optimization and use of procedures for PCR-based differentiation and identification of virulence factors. Provide specimen processing back up for classical bacteriological testing. Responsible for adherence to the CAHFS Quality Program Requirements, solving problems related to molecular diagnostic testing methods, laboratory and equipment maintenance, organizing and prioritizing workload to meet the needs of clinical testing requirements and maintaining complete records of test data and results.

Perform literature searches and utilize various reference materials to solve procedural and identification problems. This is not a research position. The position is located in a diagnostic laboratory where quality control and assurance as well as meticulous work habits are essential.

• B.S degree in molecular biology or a related scientific discipline with experience in molecular diagnostic testing for infectious agents.
• Experience working in a highly regulated diagnostic environment which adheres to ISO, AAVLD, or other laboratory accreditation standards, including expertise following complex protocols, producing neat, accurate, complete records, within a strict quality assurance and control environment for assuring test accuracy in a diagnostic lab.
• Skills to operate a biosafety cabinet, fume hood, auto and manual pipettes, spectrophotometer, digital imager, ABI-7500, centrifuges, thermocyclers, and other laboratory equipment, including any accompanying software.
• Skills to multi-task, work under multiple deadlines, and adapt to sudden changes in workload.
• Knowledge to design PCR primers, maintain stocks, optimize concentrations, and perform all related calculations.
• Strong writing, verbal communication and computer skills to produce clear and concise test results and explanations to others, including co-workers, submitting vets, and clients Including the use of various computer applications including email, word processing, spreadsheets, presentation graphics programs, library search programs, graphing and statistical analysis programs, and Laboratory Information Management programs.

• Experience/background in Animal Science, and/or livestock/poultry production.
• Experience with appropriate handling of clinical (animal tissues and fluids) and environmental samples for diagnostic bacteriology, fungal, and/or parasitology examinations.
• Skills to use DNA sequencing and phylogenetic analysis programs NCBI, Gen Bank, and Geneious.

• 60% - Clinical Diagnostics
• 20% - Laboratory Management
• 15% - Quality Programs and other Duties
• 5% - Development

• This is a critical position, as defined by UC Policy and local procedures, and as such, employment is contingent upon clearing a criminal background check(s) and may include drug screening, medical evaluation clearance and functional capacity assessment.