Molecular Technologist- Pathology

Position Summary/ Department Summary:
Working independently under minimal supervision, perform complex technical work involving molecular analysis of human biological specimens. Responsibilities include multi-step workflows requiring precise manual manipulation and pipetting, careful monitoring and control of processes, data evaluation, and a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.

Key Responsibilities:
* Evaluate and accession specimens received by the department and organize workflow to optimize efficiency and turnaround time.
* Perform extraction of DNA, RNA, and TNA from a variety of specimen types using both automated and manual workflows, including whole blood, bone marrow, bone marrow smears, FFPE, fresh or frozen tissues, buffy coat, and cell pellets.
* Perform molecular assays, including real-time RT-qPCR, ddPCR, Real-Time qPCR, hybridization, and next-generation sequencing (NGS).
* Evaluate results to identify potential issues such as interference, inhibition, or assay failure during extraction, amplification, or sequencing.
* Perform quality control, verification, validation, and other quality assurance activities to ensure optimal assay performance while maintaining strict adherence to SOPs and best practices.
* Conduct and record routine maintenance (daily, weekly, monthly, semi-annual, and annual) of laboratory instruments and troubleshoot equipment issues as needed.
* Manage inventory of supplies and reagents and communicate ordering needs.
* Operate complex laboratory instrumentation and associated software, including laboratory information systems (LIS).
* Maintain accurate records of test results and ensure proper data archiving.
* Perform proficiency testing to maintain compliance with regulatory agencies.
* Assist in the development, review, and maintenance of standard operating procedures (SOPs).
* Maintain competency by reviewing and acknowledging SOPs on a regular basis.
* Adhere to laboratory policies and procedures, including attendance and time reporting.

Minimum Qualifications
Education:
Bachelor's degree in Biology or a related field required, with training in molecular biology techniques and/or experience in clinical molecular diagnostics.

Experience:
* Minimum of 2 years of relevant experience is required.
* Experience with in-house molecular diagnostic assay design and development, including design of primers and probes, assay validation, quality control, quality assurance, and/or troubleshooting, is desired.

• Ability to follow standard protocols and independently perform routine molecular testing in a clinical laboratory setting.
• Experience working with formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) samples is preferred.
• Experience with amplicon-based targeted sequencing, bead-based workflows, and multichannel pipetting is preferred.

Licensure/ Certifications:
Molecular Biology MB ASCP Certification preferred or eligibility for certification in Molecular Biology MB ASCP is preferred.