Senior Forensic DNA Analyst, Lead

UNMC is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, including an equal opportunity employer of protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Omaha, NE

College of Medicine

Full-Time Regular

Monday - Friday, 8:00AM - 5:00PM

No remote/telecommuting opportunity

Reporting to the Director of Forensic Services, the Technical Lead is responsible for the technical operation of the Human DNA Identification ( HDI ) Laboratory and serves as the laboratory’s designated Technical Leader in accordance with FBI Quality Assurance Standards. The Technical Lead provides scientific leadership, technical oversight, training support, validation support, to ensure the delivery of accurate, timely, and scientifically defensible forensic DNA results.

This position performs and oversees complex forensic DNA testing, develops and validates new methodologies, supports quality assurance activities, and provides expert testimony in criminal proceedings.

Initial application review will begin on the date provided in the field above. Applications received prior to this review date will be considered. Applications received after the review date may be considered.

If any degree major/training is required, please specify the type. (

NOTE:

Concentration and minors are not equivalent to a major)

Chemical, Physical, Biological or Clinical Laboratory Science or Medical Technology

• At least one graduate level course registering 3 or more credit hours (Molecular Biology, Genetics or Biochemistry)
• Course work or training in forensics analysis, statistics and/or population genetics.

5 years

If any experience is required, please specify what kind of experience:

• Experience as a qualified analyst in an accredited forensic DNA laboratory to include experience with validation studies, quality assurance systems, and accreditation requirements.
• Demonstrated experience in forensic DNA interpretation and courtroom testimony.
• Experience training and mentoring forensic laboratory personnel.
• Requirements must satisfy current FBI Quality Assurance Standards for designation as a Technical Leader.

Yes

Forensic DNA certification

Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Word, Microsoft PowerPoint, Microsoft Outlook

• Scientific knowledge:
  Proficiency in molecular biology, genetics, and DNA analysis techniques such as PCR and sequencing. Comprehensive knowledge of scientific theory to perform and evaluate highly complex testing and results.
• Analytical skills:
  Strong analytical thinking and attention to detail to interpret DNA evidence accurately.
• Technical proficiency:
  Ability to operate complex laboratory equipment and maintain quality control standards. Ability to follow strict protocols regarding the custody of evidence, testing procedures and reporting guidelines.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills:
  Clear communication of findings to non-experts and stakeholders as required for laboratory results, case notes, and court testimony.
• Attention to detail:
  Critical for detecting errors and ensuring the integrity of DNA evidence.
• Ability to work as an active team member and lead, reporting results and issues to supervisor and working well with other professionals.
• Experience with professional expert testimony in courts of law.
• Knowledge of DNA FBI QAS documents and ANAB ISO / IEC 17025:2017 standards.

Forensic Science, Chemistry, Biology, Molecular Biology, Medical Technology, or other related science

• Experience serving as a Technical Leader, Technical Reviewer, or DNA Laboratory Supervisor.
• Experience with probabilistic genotyping software and complex mixture interpretation.
• Experience with forensic investigative genetic genealogy ( FIGG ) technologies and kinship analysis.
• Must complete FBI's DNA auditor training course within one year of appointment.

No

Not Applicable

GMIDX, STRmix or other probabilistic genotyping software, Justice Trax or other LIMS

• Ability to train and indirectly supervise other laboratory staff and QC activities.
• Knowledge of working in an academic institution.

Individuals who need accommodation during the online application or interview process may contact  or unmcstaffing to request an accommodation.