DNA Analyst III

Position Purpose:

The incumbent is responsible for performing DNA testing for forensic casework while complying with client and company requirements. Onsite analysts will also be responsible for performing serological and molecular lab methods as assigned. Will work as part of a highly motivated team to process high-quality casework in a timely and efficient manner. Focus is on quality, meeting client deadlines, flexibility to adapt to changing client needs, and customer service. Remote positions may be available, laboratory-based duties below do not apply to remote DNA analysts.

Essential Duties and Reponsibilities:

• Serve as a batch lead on batches, directly oversee the progression of cases in their assigned batch. This includes managing troubleshooting, answering questions from technicians/analysts assigned to their batch, ensuring that reads are done in a timely manner, and that data are ready for report writers in a timely manner.
• Perform screening and DNA analysis (as assigned) on samples with diverse matrices and various levels of template DNA to include touch DNA samples.
• Ensure that chain of custody documentation is complete and accurate and appropriate contamination control techniques are used.
• Extract DNA using multiple extraction procedures including differential extraction, quantify on a Real-Time PCR instrument, amplify using current, validated amplification kits, and analyze samples on current genetic analyzer platforms. Remote staff will be trained on these methods but will not execute them in the lab (e.g., will not perform competency testing or ongoing proficiency testing on those methods).
• Use and maintain (as assigned) a variety of modern scientific equipment such as Real-Time PCR, thermocyclers, and genetic analyzers.
• Make sound scientific decisions.
• Perform statistical analysis and interpretation of DNA results from diverse matrices and DNA template level for both single source and mixture results, including using probabilistic genotyping where appropriate.
• Prepare reagents, conduct QC testing, and conduct performance checks as assigned.
• Adhere to quality assurance practices.
• Respond to internal and external inquiries orally and in writing.
• Perform CE reads and SAQ reads (including second reads).
• Write forensic DNA reports.
• Complete assignments within the designated timeframe.
• Organize assigned activities to maximize efficiency, and alert management when technical or schedule problems arise.
• Provide expert testimony in a court of law, must be able to travel by air.
• Perform technical reviewson casework.
• Support validation tasks as needed.

Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Incumbent must meet the DNA analyst requirements specified in the FBI QAS regarding education and experience.
• Read, write, and communicate fluently in English
• Possess the ability to calculate statistics associated with casework
• Possess sound reasoning skills and regularly show ability to follow detailed standard instructions, with great attention to detail and guidance from company policy manuals and forensic SOPs.
• Possess a working knowledge of Microsoft Office; specifically Microsoft Outlook, Microsoft Excel, and Microsoft Access; instrument software (i.e., AB7500, AB3500xL); and data analysis software associated with DNA testing (i.e., GeneMapper ID-X and STRmix.
• Use the STACS-CW tracking software for casework and maintenance activities
• Ability to communicate technical information to non-technical audiences

Education/Experience:

• Must meet the DNA Analyst requirements specified in the FBI QAS regarding education and experience. Should have at least four years of progressively responsible and complex experience as a qualified DNA analyst; the typical level is 7-15 years. A Ph.D. from an accredited institution in a related technical discipline may be considered equivalent to four years of work experience, a Master's degree may be considered equivalent to two years of work experience.

Certificates & Licenses:

• Must be willing and eligible to obtain required State Licenses for Forensic DNA Analysts as specified by the Texas Forensic Science Commission.

Clearance:

N/A

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• Helps mentor forensic technicians and DNA Analysts I and II in specific methods under the direction of the Training Coordinator or in consultation with the Training Specialist. Lead validation laboratory work and/or analysis and reporting efforts under the direction of the Validation Coordinator.

Working Conditions/Equipment:

• Must work in a laboratory environment that requires wearing PPE and standing for extended periods of time. Required to enter data and write reports by typing on a computer. Will have potential contact with hazardous materials, including biological fluids and must be able to lift up to 20 pounds without assistance and 40 pounds with assistance to handle evidence.