Molecular Technologist (Healthcare Intermediate Professional)

Job Summary

A full-time Molecular Technologist (MT) position is available in the Colorado Molecular Correlates (CMOCO) Laboratory in the Department of Pathology at University of Colorado Denver. The MT will be involved in various laboratory procedures including analysis of clinical samples by molecular biology methods with a focus on assays including, but not limited to, DNA sequencing, real-time PCR and next generation DNA and RNA sequencing (NGS). This position will involve testing of human tumor and blood samples for genetic changes in a clinical laboratory environment. The MT will be primarily involved in clinical testing and may be involved in the development of new clinical assays.

The MT's duties will include a variety of laboratory functions. Laboratory duties may be assigned involving analysis of clinical and research samples, including but not limited to: microdissection, TNA extraction, various molecular assays including sequencing, real-time PCR, next generation sequencing, data analysis, assay result interpretation, and proper maintenance and management of laboratory records. The MT will also participate in quality control/quality assurance activities, as well as general lab duties such as reagent lot validation and inventory management. The MT will also be assigned various laboratory maintenance projects. The laboratory operates in compliance with CLIA (Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act) standards and inspected by the CAP (College of American Pathologists). As such, the candidate should have knowledge of the requirements for working in a clinical laboratory environment, and any previous experience in a clinical laboratory, ISO certified laboratory or laboratory carrying other certifications is preferred.

Examples of Work Performed

• (15%) Performs nucleic acid extraction (DNA and/or RNA) on fixed tissues, blood, or bone marrow.
• (5%) Utilizes appropriate equipment with precision for all molecular diagnostic protocols.
• (50%) Performs complex molecular diagnostic techniques and demonstrates competency with pipetting and PCR techniques.
• (5%) Performs computer data entry, recall, accessioning, receiving, and labeling on complex pathology network (LIS).
• (5%) Performs routine preventative maintenance, cleaning, and minor adjustments on all lab equipment.
• (2%) Prepares and examine solutions for contamination, impurities, or instability.
• (2%) Follows procedures on all lab tests.
• (2%) Retrieves and stores specimens properly for long term storage.
• (2%) Assists in maintaining accreditation standards, to include all check sheets and quality control information sheets.
• (2%) Performs all procedures in a timely manner.
• (2%) Assists in the ordering of laboratory supplies to maintain proper inventory.
• (2%) Knowledgeable of all lab procedures and specimen submission requirements.
• (2%) Understand and use proper safety practices.
• (2%) Complete all UCD required training and compliance courses.
• (2%) Perform other duties as assigned.

Work Location

Onsite – this role is expected to work onsite and is located in Aurora, CO.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• A bachelor's degree in a biological, health or social science or a directly related field from an accredited institution.
• One (1) year of molecular biology laboratory experience
• A combination of education and related technical/paraprofessional experience may be substituted for the bachelor's degree on a year for year basis.

Preferred Qualifications

• Molecular Technologist Certification (ASCP).
• Previous experience in a clinical molecular diagnostics lab.
• Experience with next generation sequencing (NGS).