The Target Pay Range for this position is $74,000 - $93,000 annually. At Antech, pay decisions are determined using factors such as relevant job-related skills, experience, education, training, and budget.The R&D Molecular CI Specialist is responsible for performing various molecular diagnostic protocols, troubleshooting escalated diagnostic cases, supporting continuous improvement program and creating QC criteria for novel assays . This is a highly dynamic, interactive and fast-paced position requiring a pro-active can-do and can-solve attitude in an innovative molecular diagnostics R&D arena.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:- Follow and perform protocols for various molecular diagnostics techniques.
- Nucleic acid extraction with emphasis for molecular diagnostic testing.
- Perform and analyze results for real-time PCR (qPCR), digital droplet PCR (ddPCR), array technologies based on microarray or beads, sequencing protocols, other molecular protocols,
- Design and conduct experiments to investigate issues pertaining, but not limited to, reagents, tests, protocols, and assay design of molecular assays.
- Support continuous improvement program of molecular assays by investigating escalated clinical cases and identifying new genotypes.
- Create QC criteria for novel molecular assays and new reagent lots.
- Prepare color compensation kits reagents and review color compensation experiments from across multiple laboratories.
- Assist in R&D protocol transition to QA and manufacturing departments
- Maintain QA database and filling system
- Perform statistical analysis of varying data, including but not limited to, monitoring of ISC QC failures and QuanPCR rates
- Establish stability of various reagents by designing and conducting stability studies
- Exercises judgment in evaluating and reporting results to supervisor.
- Performs equipment maintenance.
- Knowledge of lab equipment and procedures.
- Awareness of quality control and calibration.
- Entry of samples into a central sample collection (physical) and database (computer)
- Partner with associates cross-departmentally to drive mutual business goals.
- Cross-train and develop knowledge of multiple specialties within department/lab.
- Applies job skills and lab policies and procedures to complete a variety of tasks.
- Reads, understands and follows applicable Standard Operating Procedures (SOP's), including safety and quality procedures.
- Maintains clean and organized work area and laboratory space
- Knowledge in supply inventory and restocking as needed.
- Participates in improving lab efficiency, quality, and cooperation.
- Consult with senior peers on troubleshooting problems.
- May be asked to participate in enterprise initiatives, special projects, and other duties as assigned.
- May be required to travel up to 25% of the time.
- Reliable and dependable attendance is an essential function of the position. Adherence to attendance-related policies and expectations is critical to this position
- Performs other duties as assigned.
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE- Graduate Degree in Molecular Biology, Biology, Cell & Molecular Biology, Immunology, or related science field, preferred.
- Bachelor's Degree in Molecular Biology, Biology, Molecular Sciences, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Immunology, or science field related, required.
- Minimum 1-3 years of PCR related lab experience, required.
- 1-3 years of quality assurance experience, required.
REQUIRED SKILLS AND ABILITIES: - Laboratory skills, with experience with experiment design, running, interpreting data and troubleshooting molecular assays and instruments.
- General science background, including cellular biology, basic nucleic acid biochemistry, biology of disease.
- Understanding of molecular design.
- Analytical skills pertaining to scientific and laboratory activities
- Attention to detail
- Problem-solving abilities
- Organized with ability to multi-task in a fast paced R&D environment
- Ability to work independently and as part of an interactive team
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
- Positive, can-do and can-solve attitude
- Knowledge of Good Clinical Practice (GCP) and Good Lab Practices (GLP) as appropriate.
- Personal computer skills, including strong typing ability and proficient use of Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
PHYSICAL DEMANDS: • Extensive standing, phone, and computer use
• Capable of standing continuously for up to 2 hours
• Extend and reach with hands and arms and use hands and fingers
• Occasionally required to bend, kneel, stoop, or crouch
• May be required to lift, move, and carry up to 50 lbs.
• Specific vision abilities required include close vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
• Hearing ability to effectively communicate via the telephone and in person
• Ability to communicate verbally on the phone and in person
• Fluency in the English language
• Extended hours may be needed
• Ability to travel up to 25% of time
WORK ENVIRONMENT:• Laboratory environment with potential biohazards present that are mitigated by the mandatory use of PPE.
• Works under close to moderate supervision with limited latitude for independent judgment.
• Normally receives general instructions on routine work, detailed instructions on new assignments.
Potential for exposure to agents known to cause zoonotic disease in humans and use of potentially hazardous chemicals as defined by the National Hazard Communication Standards. A complete list of such chemicals is
