Position Summary / Career Interest:

This position is a clinical role and will be working for the Division of Genomic Diagnostics in a CAP-accredited cytogenetics laboratory. The senior scientist will be responsible for a wide variety of cytogenetic diagnostics and quality assurance duties to ensure regulatory compliance. The role is responsible for new test development and validation of new assays, instruments, and software. The role will perform high complexity cytogenetic laboratory testing as well as accurate data analysis and reporting in preparation for review by a director. The role will assist the director to resolve technical problems and ensure that remedial actions are taken whenever test systems deviate from the laboratory’s established performance specifications. A strong background in ‘omics’ data analysis including chromosomal microarray (CMA) data analysis and report preparation (Oncology) is necessary with optional NGS variant analysis experience. Training and experience as an ASCP-certified technologist in cytogenetics CG(ASCP) and/or molecular diagnostics MB(ASCP) is highly desirable with experience working with chromosomes and DNA, utilizing a wide variety of molecular cytogenetic instrumentation. Data interpretation skills utilizing results generated by karyotype, fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), chromosomal microarray (CMA) and next-generation sequencing (NGS) from clinical oncology samples are critical. Key skills include: the ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing; strong organizational and interpersonal skills; ability to prioritize work, meet deadlines; attention to detail; ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a dynamic setting; proficiency in computing and internet skills, including the use of in-house and online databases and browsers for large volume data analysis.

Responsibilities:

• Must be able to perform the professional, clinical and or technical competencies of the assigned unit or department.
• Perform new test development and clinical validation under the direction of the assistant director; Validate/verify analytical performance; install, maintain and calibrate instrumentation; implement appropriate quality control activities;
• Perform high complexity molecular laboratory tests including nucleic acid extractions, analytical testing performance, data analysis, and reporting, as required, to meet CMOL testing service needs;
• Recognize problems and initiate troubleshooting steps to evaluate testing failures and other problems; Write standard operating procedures (SOPs) for new tests and help update existing protocols as needed;
• Conduct quality control and quality assurance of test systems, reagents and instrumentation, as appropriate, including assisting the development of quality standards for new tests and procedures and participating in proficiency testing;
• Train technical staff regarding new assays and evaluate the competency of testing personnel;
• Assist the assistant director to resolve technical problems and ensure that remedial actions are taken whenever test systems deviate from the laboratory’s established performance specifications.
• Perform PCR- and NGS-based molecular oncology testing in accordance with standard operating procedures for the diagnosis and treatment of various types of cancer; Assists with NGS data analysis and variant assessment review using validated workflows;
• Prepare, test and evaluate new reagents or controls; Utilize a wide array of instrumentation, including MiSeq, NextSeq, ABI 3500 xL and ABI 7500 Fast Dx instruments, performing routine maintenance, quality control and calibrations, as required. Accurately enter results of testing and review reports to ensure accurate test result reporting in preparation for review by a Director;
• Review, interpret, and report patient results reliably, accurately, and with integrity;
• Interact collaboratively with other laboratory directors, laboratory staff, genetic counselors, and teams across the University of Kansas Health System; Comply with applicable federal, state, and local regulations and maintain familiarity with company SOPs and practices and applicable professional guidelines;
• Help write and refine report text; Help evaluate and refine NGS gene panels offered by the laboratory as needed;
• Analyze data for presentation or publication as needed; Review scientific literature, attend scientific meetings, and lead the bi-monthly molecular tumor board;
• Compile information and coordinate resources for billing compliance, laboratory information systems, and other hospital departments, as needed.
• Additional duties as assigned.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

Required:

• PhD degree in the biological sciences or related fields.
• Knowledge in current molecular biology techniques including experience working with DNA, RNA and protein, and other molecular biological techniques Relevant molecular biology or genetics experience.

Preferred:

• Experience with next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies.
• 2 years of prior experience in a clinical laboratory environment.
• Medical Laboratory Scientist, MLS(ASCP)CM or Technologist in Molecular Biology, MB(ASCP)CM
• Familiar with NGS variant analysis and interpretation (oncology).

We are an equal employment opportunity employer without regard to a person’s race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity and sexual orientation), national origin, ancestry, age (40 or older), disability, veteran status or genetic information.