Public Health Scientist

Agency, Position and

Agency Dept of Health and Human Services Division Public Health Job Classification Title Publ Hlth Scientist (NS) Position Number  Grade NC20

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is one of the largest, most complex agencies in the state, and has approximately 17,000 employees. It is responsible for ensuring the health, safety, and well-being of all North Carolinians, providing human service needs for special populations including individuals who are deaf, blind, developmentally disabled, and mentally ill, and helping poor North Carolinians achieve economic independence.

The Public Health Scientist - Newborn Screening Molecular position provides scientific and technical leadership in the Newborn Screening Molecular Laboratory at the North Carolina State Laboratory of Public Health, directing advanced molecular newborn screening activities that support public health testing priorities. It serves as a subject matter expert responsible for developing, validating, implementing, and improving complex molecular assays used to detect DNA variants and other markers for conditions on the Recommended Uniform Screening Panel.

This role performs high‑level analytical and bioinformatic procedures using PCR, fragment analysis, and next‑generation sequencing technologies to ensure accurate and reliable newborn screening results. Work includes evaluating new molecular methodologies, integrating second‑tier testing strategies, and supporting expansion of the newborn screening panel. The position operates within a highly technical laboratory environment and ensures the scientific rigor, quality, and effective operation of molecular testing initiatives.

• Develop and validate molecular testing methods to ensure accurate detection of DNA variants and molecular markers for newborn screening conditions.
• Implement new diagnostic assays and integrate second‑tier testing strategies into existing laboratory workflows.
• Perform advanced analytical procedures using PCR, fragment analysis, and next‑generation sequencing platforms.
• Conduct complex bioinformatics analyses to support interpretation of molecular testing results.
• Evaluate and assess new molecular methodologies for inclusion in newborn screening algorithms.
• Prepare, review, and present scientific reports summarizing analytical findings and laboratory performance.
• Provide technical guidance, training, and consultation to laboratory staff regarding molecular testing workflows and diagnostic procedures.
• Troubleshoot complex issues involving instrumentation, software, assay performance, and laboratory workflows.
• Maintain quality assurance practices aligned with regulatory requirements and laboratory standards.
• Support strategic planning and continuous improvement of molecular diagnostic services within the newborn screening program.

Applicants who possess the following skills are preferred:

• Expertise in developing, optimizing, validating, and implementing molecular testing methodologies using advanced laboratory techniques and instrumentation.
• Demonstrated experience performing high‑complexity molecular diagnostic procedures, including PCR, fragment analysis, and next‑generation sequencing, to support newborn screening workflows.
• Proficiency conducting analytical and bioinformatics data reviews to interpret assay performance, troubleshoot issues, and generate technical recommendations for laboratory operations.
• Proven experience producing clear and concise technical reports and presentations by compiling scientific data and translating complex findings for laboratory peers, managers, and scientific audiences.
• Demonstrated capability resolving complex molecular assay, instrumentation, and workflow problems through systematic investigation and technical problem‑solving strategies.

Salary Grade Range: $70,478.00 - $

Recruitment Range: $70,478.00 - $98,000.00

Exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally and/or up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to more objects.