Microbiologist II (Genomics)

SUMMARY

The Infectious Disease Laboratory Division (IDLD) is seeking a highly motivated Genomic Scientist to join our Genomics Center core sequencing facility at the California Department of Public Health (CDPH). In this role you will collaborate cross-functionally to execute Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) workflows that support CDPHs surveillance diagnostics and research efforts. Working as part of a team you will be involved in all aspects of the NGS workflow including library preparation targeted enrichment and DNA sequencing.

The ideal candidate will have a strong scientific background laboratory experience in molecular and cellular biology a thorough understanding of sequencing technologies and expertise with platforms such as Illumina and Oxford Nanopore. This is a full-time position (Monday through Friday 40 hours per week). Weekend holiday and overtime coverage may be required during public health emergencies.

The position is in Richmond CA and is funded until July 31 2027. Extension is possible pending available funding.

Must submit a resume with the application.

The hourly range for this position is $37.63 to $56.02 per hour depending on experience/qualifications.

Must be able to work flexible hours that may include weekends and holidays.

If hired for this position applicant will be required to provide proof of full vaccinated for COVID-19 prior to the start date; or have a valid religious or medical reason qualifying the applicant for an exemption (that may or may not require accommodation). The applicant will need to have the qualifying exemption.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Participate in all aspects of the NGS workflow including sample preparation library generation DNA sequencing and data generation.
• Operate and maintain various laboratory instruments including NGS sequencers liquid handlers and PCR/qPCR machines.
• Develop and optimize methods and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for comprehensive DNA sequencing using short- and long-read sequencing technologies.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design and execute verification and validation studies for regulatory submissions.
• Work with researchers across the organization to plan and execute experiments studying pathogens of importance in public health.
• Perform work according to established internal safety and quality guidelines and procedures as specified by appropriate external regulatory agencies (e.g. OSHA CLIA FDA).
• Maintain laboratory supplies and ensure proper cleanliness and sanitation under Good Clinical Practice (GCP) and/or Good Laboratory Practice (GLP).
• Summarize experimental results and review conclusions with research supervisors or project leaders.
• Assist with other IDLD activities and testing in other CDPH sections to enhance capacity during laboratory surges.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS

• Broad scientific background in molecular and cellular biology understanding of sequencing technologies and expertise with sequencing platforms such as Illumina and Oxford Nanopore.
• Experience or proficiency in molecular biology techniques such as NGS library preparation target enrichment DNA amplification/purification and DNA quantitation/characterization (e.g. Qubit TapeStation NanoDrop qPCR machines).
• Experience working in a sequencing or genomics core facility and operating various sequencing platforms (e.g. Illumina PacBio Oxford Nanopore) is preferred.
• Experience with high-throughput laboratory automation computational skills or a basic understanding of programming languages is a plus.
• Ability to conduct and report on scientific experiments while maintaining careful attention to detail safety and good laboratory practices.
• Strong communication skills self-motivation and proven ability to work independently and within cross-functional teams.
• Excellent organizational prioritization and planning skills to ensure projects are completed under established deadlines and timelines.

Education/Experience

• Possession of a Bachelors degree in the field of microbiology molecular biology genetics life sciences systems biology data analytics chemistry or related fields with 3 years of relevant molecular and microbiology laboratory experience OR
• Possession of a Masters degree in the field of microbiology molecular biology genetics life sciences systems biology data analytics chemistry or related fields with 1 years of relevant molecular and microbiology laboratory experience.

Certificates/Licenses

• Possession of a California Public Health Microbiologist certificate or eligibility for the Public Health Microbiologist training program is preferred but not required.

Other Skills Knowledge and Abilities

• Familiarity with Microsoft Office software including Word Excel Outlook and PowerPoint.
• Ability to effectively communicate verbally and in writing.
• Ability to work independently and adapt to varied work settings.
• Ability to work effectively with a team of diverse individuals.
• Ability to multi-task and work effectively under pressure.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Stand: Frequently
• Walk: Frequently
• Sit: Frequently
• Handling / Fingering: Frequently
• Reach Outward: Occasionally
• Reach Above Shoulder: Occasionally
• Climb Crawl Kneel Bend: Occasionally
• Lift / Carry: Occasionally - Up to 30 lbs
• Push/Pull: Occasionally - Up to 50 lbs
• See: Constantly
• Taste/ Smel: Not Applicable

KEY

• Not Applicable: Not required for essential functions
• Occasionally: (0 - 2 hrs/day)
• Frequently: (2 - 5 hrs/day)
• Constantly: (5 hrs/day)

WORK ENVIRONMENT

General office and laboratory setting indoors temperature controlled

EEOC STATEMENT

It is the policy of Heluna Health to provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to age (40 and over) national origin or ancestry race color religion sex gender sexual orientation pregnancy or perceived pregnancy reproductive health decision making physical or mental disability medical condition (including cancer or a record or history of cancer) AIDS or HIV genetic information or characteristics veteran status or military service.