Genomic Microbiologist II: Viral Diagnostics & Sequencing

Goldbelt, Inc.; Atlanta (GA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Goldbelt Professional Services in Atlanta, GA is seeking a Microbiologist II to perform virology-focused investigations, sequencing, and diagnostic assay development. You will work with viral materials in BSL-2/3 environments and contribute to outbreak response efforts, data analysis, and publications.

Qualified candidates have 3–5 years in molecular virology or related fields, with experience in RT-PCR, sequencing, and genomic analysis; CDC clearance may be required.

Qualifications

• Working knowledge of virology, molecular microbiology, molecular diagnostics, sequencing, and infectious disease lab methods.
• Hands-on experience with nucleic acid extraction, real-time RT-PCR/PCR, and other molecular diagnostic assays.
• Experience with genomic sequencing methods including Sanger and NGS technologies such as Oxford Nanopore.
• Knowledge of viral sequence analysis and phylogenetic methods used for typing, surveillance, and outbreak response.
• Experience supporting diagnostic assay development and validation of new molecular/sequencing technologies.
• Ability to work in BSL-2 and/or BSL-3 environments with biosafety and contamination-control procedures.
• Experience propagating and maintaining viral reagents and handling animal specimens potentially containing zoonotic agents.
• Strong documentation and records-management skills for protocols, reagents, and data.
• Ability to interpret sequencing data and communicate findings via reports and presentations.
• Ability to train laboratory personnel and collaborate with domestic and international partners.

Responsibilities

• Perform virus diagnostic testing including real-time RT-PCR and other assays for confirmation or screening.
• Perform genomic sequencing using Sanger and next-generation methods (including Nanopore).
• Conduct phylogenetic analysis to improve typing, surveillance, and controls.
• Help develop diagnostics and validate new molecular sequencing technologies.
• Train laboratory staff and external researchers in diagnostic assays.
• Participate in international research activities to evaluate capabilities and procure equipment.
• Lead and participate in studies in BSL-2 and BSL-3 labs.
• Maintain detailed lab records suitable for peer-reviewed publications.
• Assist with ordering reagents and maintaining laboratory spaces.
• Propagate and purify viruses for assay validation and research.
• Perform nucleic acid extractions on animal samples potentially infected with zoonotic agents.
• Analyze data and communicate findings through reports and meetings.
• Present work at national/international conferences and prepare manuscripts.

Skills

Virology

Molecular microbiology

Genomic sequencing

Real-time RT-PCR

Phylogenetic analysis

Bioinformatics tools

Laboratory documentation

BSL-2/BSL-3 handling

Training others

Education

Bachelor's degree in microbiology or closely related field

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Oxford Nanopore sequencing

Sanger sequencing

NGS platforms

Job description

Goldbelt Professional Services in Atlanta, GA is seeking a Microbiologist II to perform virology-focused investigations, sequencing, and diagnostic assay development. You will work with viral materials in BSL-2/3 environments and contribute to outbreak response efforts, data analysis, and publications.

Qualified candidates have 3–5 years in molecular virology or related fields, with experience in RT-PCR, sequencing, and genomic analysis; CDC clearance may be required.