SUMMARY

The Viral and Rickettsial Disease Laboratory (VRDL) seeks a Senior Microbiologist candidate to join the Zoonotic and Vector Borne Diseases Section. In this role, the candidate will support VRDL efforts to enhance surveillance for zoonotic viral pathogens by assisting with the development and optimization of real-time PCR detection methods and NGS sequencing protocols for multiple zoonotic viruses (e.g., rabies lyssavirus and orthohantaviruses). The Senior Microbiologist will also support other NGS activities at CDPH related to sequence generation and data analysis for phylogenetics, genotyping, and other types of genomic characterization of vector borne viral pathogens (e.g., rabies lyssavirus, orthohantaviruses, arboviruses, coltiviruses).

The ideal candidate should have a solid scientific background in microbiology (virology preferred), hands-on experience in molecular methods (e.g., PCR, real-time PCR), basic experience with bioinformatics software (e.g., editing chromatograms, making alignments, building phylogenetic trees), and a working knowledge of next generation sequencing. The incumbent is also expected to stay up to date with scientific literature and contribute to the laboratory academically by assisting with abstracts and manuscripts.

The salary range for this position is $85,000 per year - $114,000 per year depending on experience/ qualifications.

The position is in Richmond, CA.

Must submit a resume with application. 

If hired for this position, applicant will be required to provide proof of full vaccination 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

• Organize and perform molecular scientific research studies on viral pathogens using real-time PCR, end point PCR, and NGS methods in collaboration with other research scientists
• Work as part of a research team to develop and implement new workflows, molecular assays, and analyses for genomic characterization of viral pathogens
• Use bioinformatics software such as Geneious to edit sequencing data, make alignments, and generate phylogenetic trees
• Plan and perform validations for new molecular and NGS-based methods
• Adhere and contribute to Quality Assurance protocols and standards
• Assist with scientific writing tasks such as SOPs, reports, validation summaries, posters, and manuscripts
• Maintain organized and detailed laboratory records of experiments, specimens, and reagents
• Stay updated with the latest scientific advancements in molecular testing and sequencing of viruses
• Assist in training workshops
• Assist with bat identification as part of rabies surveillance
• Fulfill other duties related to zoonotic diseases as assigned

JOB QUALIFICATIONS

• Proficiency in molecular biology techniques such as PCR and NGS
• Knowledge and experience with laboratory work environments (BSL-2 minimum)
• Experience with standard precautions for working with potentially infectious clinical specimens, particularly working in class II BSC
• Ability to conduct and report on scientific experiments while maintaining careful attention to detail, safety, and good laboratory practices
• Proficiency in using bioinformatics software such as Geneious
• Strong communication skills, self-motivation, and proven ability to work independently and in cross-functional teams
• Excellent organizational, prioritization, and planning skills
• Experience with NGS methods (e.g., library prep, data analysis) preferred, but not required
• Command line and/or programming (e.g., Python, R) experience preferred, but not required

Education/Experience

• Master’s degree required; PhD preferred (degree conferred by start date)
• 3 years’ experience working in a laboratory setting, with 2 years’ experience in molecular methods

Other Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities

• Experience with Microsoft Office software, including Word, Access, Outlook, PowerPoint, and especially Excel
• Familiarity working with databases
• 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

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 (Vision): Constantly
• Taste/ Smell: 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 without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.