R&D Technician II

Apply general microbiology/parasitological/serology and molecular methods to ensure timely processing and identification of clinical samples. Provide laboratory and administrative support to SSIU Bacteriology/Serology/Parasitology team. Complete testing for internal and external customers, as requested. Participate in other projects as assigned. Understand and promote the CEVA Animal Health values and Business Objectives/Goals.

Bacteriology Support

• Perform classical bacteriology methods on submitted samples including but not limited to isolation and identification of significant bacterial pathogens from avian, porcine and other sources

• Maintain the laboratory culture collection and inventory

• Transfer isolates and technology to custom production as needed

Molecular Support

• Basic working knowledge on molecular methods particularly conventional PCR and real-time PCR for bacteria and parasites

• Perform routine DNA extractions and PCR assays for incoming samples

• Understand test results and trouble shoot under guidance

Parasitology Support

• Basic understanding of Coccidia life cycles

• Processing of fecal samples

• Perform fecal flotation test for speciation/oocyst count and report the results

Serology Support

• Process serum samples and perform ELISA’s as needed.

• Understanding of plate reader software for ELISA analysis and reporting

Vaccinology and Surveillance Support

• Set up, organize, and monitor the timelines of surveillance for various customers

• Perform classical bacteriology on submitted samples for isolation and identification of surveillance organisms from avian, porcine and other sources

• Communicate and arrange logistics to ensure all appropriate information is received in a timely manner

• Understand characterization and differentiation of isolates by phenotypic and genotypic analysis to formulate vaccine

General Laboratory Support

• Ensure timely specimen processing and turnaround of results for clinical samples and reports

• Laboratory organization of reagents and freezer inventories

• Maintain laboratory supplies and equipment

• Organize and maintain accurate bench records

• Prepare media or reagents used in laboratory tests and maintain preparation records

• Basic knowledge of laboratory databases with Microsoft Excel and Word proficiency

• Provide cross-disciplinary support as needed

Teamwork with SID, R&D, and Sales & Marketing

• Contribute to training materials and writing standard operating procedures

• Communicate and track the results/data and organize information efficiently

• Assist in animal trials or studies as needed

• Provide training to new technicians and interns

• Cross-train with other internal teams – molecular, serology, virology techniques

USDA Regulations and Internal Quality Assurance

• Maintain and review complete and accurate bench records following appropriate guidelines

• Understand and follow USDA guidelines and other regulations including 9 CFR 113

• Follow internal quality assurance guidelines

• Drive ambition and accountability – shows concern for reaching target

• Influence others – communicates clearly

• Collaborate with empathy – responds to cooperation requests

• Engage and develop – values learning for oneself and others

• Shape solutions out of complexity – accepts needs for flexibility

• Client focus – responds appropriately

• Aseptic technique

• Microbiology laboratory function

• Mathematical aptitude

• Effective communication

• Laboratory technical expertise

• Self-starting

• Initiative to work independently, within a team and under supervision as needed

• Organized with the ability to prioritize

Education -

• master’s in microbiology or equivalent preferred, with diagnostic lab experience

• BA/BS in science related field with 2 or more years relevant experience in diagnostic or microbiology laboratory setting

Work Experience -

• Intermediate knowledge and work experience with coccidian is strongly preferred

• Intermediate knowledge in microbiology

• Intermediate knowledge of classical bacteriology culture methods

• Basic working knowledge of molecular biology techniques and analysis

• Able to read, write, and communicate in English
• Bending 20%
• Lifting up to 30 lbs.
• Standing 10%
• Visual inspection 75%
• Verbal communication 80%

The work setting is a microbiological laboratory. Exposures to zoonotic agents are probable.

This position will require up to 5% time for business travel.

This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the job and general nature and level of work performed by job holders within this job.This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of qualifications, skills, duties and responsibilities or working conditions associated with the job.This job description is not an employment contract.Ceva reserves the right to modify job duties and/or job descriptions at any time to meet the needs of the business.

• VEVRAA Federal Contractor

669B