Scientist I

Pay range: 31-41/hr
*depending on experience

Job Description:
The GTECH team is seeking to hire a Scientist to support sample management efforts and utilize robust sample processing workflows to drive the generation of high-quality molecular profiling for Development and Discovery R&D stakeholders. The successful candidate will join the Sample Management and Processing group within GTECH that handles sample receipt, quality control, storage, nucleic acid extractions. The candidate will collaborate cross-functionally to deliver high-quality nucleic acids and related data sets in a timely manner as well as manage and organize incoming and existing samples using our sample management system (LIMS). The candidate will receive training and is expected to become proficient in SOPs within four weeks, operate daily functions independently, demonstrate technical precision and strong data interpretation skills, adhere to good documentation practices and department SOPs, and possess an understanding of the core disciplines of molecular genetics and genomics.

Responsibilities:
The responsibilities of this job include:
• Perform sample management duties including but not limited to processing and shipping out preliminary project requests within set business guidelines, conducting preliminary quality control (QC) and documentation of condition of samples received, appropriately store samples, and update request system with sample receipt and/or discrepancies within three business days.
• Perform both routine and complex wet lab tasks to generate high-quality nucleic acids from human and non-human samples and generate nucleic acid QC data within agreed upon timelines.
• Possess strong preliminary analysis and interpretation skills of nucleic acid QC data.
• Perform troubleshooting for routine wet lab tasks independently and alert the manager of any errors.
• Consult with manager or team lead for troubleshooting, system improvements, or creative solutions to complex problems needs.
• Communicate project updates, compile and share project completion QC reports with their manager, stakeholders, and teammates in a timely manner.
• Present data in scientific and/or technical meetings.
• Accurately record experimental setup, processing, and data quality control notes.
• Adhere to established laboratory SOPs and assist with development of novel SOPs.
• Support the development and testing of established and new LIMS.
• Support downstream molecular workflows as needed with manager’s direction.
• Maintain wet lab instruments, such as those used for extraction and nucleic acid QC.
• Maintain documentation for experiments and instrumentation as outlined by laboratory standards.

Qualifications
• Experience required. BS degree in Genetics/genomic or related field or equivalent with 4+ years relevant experience, MS degree in Genetics/Genomics with 2+ years relevant experience.
• Theoretical and practical knowledge to carry out job function including but not limited to:
o Experience with performing routine and or complex nucleic acid workflows from source material such as cells, tissues, blood, other biofluids.
o Experience with performing routine and/or complex nucleic acid quality control and analyzing/interpreting data for, such as, but not limited to fluorescence quantification, absorbance, and integrity analysis.
o Proficiency in micropipetting techniques for accurate laboratory measurements.
o Ability to strictly adhere to SOPs and lab guidelines.
o Strong computer skills, especially in Microsoft Office Suite.
o Self-motivated and work independently in a fast-paced and fluid environment with high attention to detail.

Preferred
• Experience with low and high throughput sample tracking and data management (LIMS).
• Experience with performing and maintaining workflows on automation platforms.
• Experience in a CLIA certified laboratory or other regulated laboratory environments.
• Experience in clinical writing and editing documents/manuals.
• Works well in a multidisciplinary team environment.
• Capacity to learn new methodologies/techniques quickly and drives innovation to improve workflows.
• Demonstrates effective and efficient communication.