Laboratory Technologist

Mississippi State University; Mississippi; On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Mississippi State University is seeking a Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory professional to perform sample prep, nucleic acid extraction, and molecular assays in a high-throughput setting. You will handle nucleic acid extraction, PCR setup, and result review while ensuring QA and biosafety standards are maintained.

You will also manage reagents, participate in assay validation, collaborate with diagnosticians, and support inventory and reporting activities across the lab.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or equivalent.
• Basic knowledge of molecular biology techniques (PCR, nucleic acid extraction).

Responsibilities

• Sample preparation and nucleic acid extraction from various veterinary specimens.
• Set up and run molecular assays including conventional and real-time PCR.
• Conduct post-amplification analysis and preliminary result review.
• Operate, calibrate, and maintain molecular lab instrumentation.
• Document procedures, results, and QC data in LIMS or databases.
• Assist in troubleshooting assay performance under supervision.
• Prepare reagents, controls, and consumables for molecular workflows.
• Participate in validation/verification/optimization of molecular assays.
• Contribute to inventory management and stocking of supplies.
• Collaborate with diagnosticians and faculty to report results promptly.
• Participate in QA audits and NAHLN proficiency testing.
• Support QA, biosafety, and contamination control procedures.
• Respond to foreign animal disease investigations and outbreaks.
• Assist in sample accessioning during high workload in Sample Receiving.
• Prepare blood smears and clinical pathology specimens for shipment.
• Serve as backup for fecal sample processing and parasitological identifications.
• Participate in weekend/holiday on-call rotation.
• Adhere to safety regulations and federal guidelines.

Skills

Molecular biology techniques

PCR knowledge

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or equivalent in comparable veterinary or medical science degree

Tools

Real-time PCR platforms

LIMS

Automated extraction systems

Job description

Position Function:

The primary responsibilities of this position will be in the Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory, with shared duties in the Sample Receiving area, including the preparation of blood samples for shipment and serving as a backup for fecal sample processing and parasitological identifications. The Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory performs both routine and high-throughput PCR-based assays to support the detection, identification, and characterization of animal pathogens.

Salary Grade: 13

Area of Specialization:

MVRDL

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Sample preparation, and nucleic acid extraction (DNA/RNA) from a variety of veterinary specimens
• Set up and run molecular assays, including conventional and real-time PCR (qPCR) methodologies following established SOPs
• Conduct post-amplification analysis and preliminary result review in accordance with laboratory protocols
• Operate, maintain, and calibrate molecular laboratory instrumentation (e.g., thermocyclers, extraction platforms)
• Document all procedures, results, and QC data in the laboratory information system (LIMS) or other databases
• Assist in troubleshooting assay performance and resolving technical issues under supervision
• Prepare reagents, controls, and consumables required for molecular workflows
• Participate in validation, verification, or optimization of molecular diagnostic assays (e.g., new PCR panels, sequencing support)
• Contribute to inventory management, ordering, and stocking of laboratory supplies
• Collaborate with diagnosticians, faculty, and other laboratory sections to ensure timely reporting of results
• Participation in NAHLN proficiency testing and QA audits (AAVLD accreditation)
• Support the laboratory quality assurance program, maintaining strict adherence to quality assurance (QA), biosafety, and contamination control procedures
• Participate in the laboratory’s response to foreign animal disease investigations or outbreak situations, including collecting samples from submitters’ vehicles and performing vehicle disinfection.
• Support the Sample Receiving area by organizing and accessioning, samples for avian influenza and chronic wasting disease testing during periods of high workload.
• Prepare blood smears and clinical pathology specimens for shipment to the Diagnostic Laboratory on the main campus.
• Serve as a backup for fecal sample processing and parasitological identifications.
• Participate in a weekend and holiday on-call rotation from October through March, with assignments occurring approximately once per month.
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations and federal guidelines related to biosecurity and waste disposal.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or equivalent in comparable veterinary or medical science degree.
• Basic knowledge of molecular biology techniques (PCR, nucleic acid extraction)

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in a diagnostic or research laboratory performing PCR testing
• Experience with real-time PCR platforms, LIMS, and automated extraction systems
• Familiarity with veterinary diagnostic testing (e.g., poultry, livestock, or companion animals)
• MS in a science related field

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent multitasking skills.
• Excellent time management and prioritization
• Skill in the use of computers and working knowledge of word processing, spreadsheet, and database software packages.
• Ability to maintain quality, safety, and/or infection control standards
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-throughput laboratory environment
• Proactivity and initiative

Working Conditions and Physical Effort:

• Work is normally performed in a typical interior/laboratory work environment.
• Duties will require the use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including lab coats and gloves, as well as adherence to biosafety protocols when handling biological specimens.
• The employee is frequently required to stand for long periods, walk, use hands to manipulate, handle or feel, reach with hands and arms.
• Work hours may vary, including occasionally working after 5:00 pm, weekends and holidays
• Vision requirements: Ability to see information in print and/or electronically.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

Mississippi State University is an equal opportunity institution. Discrimination is prohibited in university employment, programs or activities based on race, color, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, or any other status to the extent protected by applicable law. Questions about equal opportunity programs or compliance should be directed to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance, 231 Famous Maroon Band Street, P.O. 6044, Mississippi State, MS 39762, [phone].

What do I do if I need an accommodation?

In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADA), if you have a disability and wouldlike to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi StateUniversity, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at tel: [phone] or [e-mail].

If you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human ResourcesManagement at [phone] or [e-mail]. Upon request, sections of thisjob listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.