Molecular Biologist II — Arbovirus Lab Specialist, Austin

Texas Department of State Health Services; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 54,000 - 62,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Insurance coverage

Job summary

Texas Department of State Health Services in Austin seeks a Molecular Biologist II to identify arthropods, including mosquitoes, for arbovirus isolation and molecular testing under supervision. You will train others and assist with workflow and stock management in the Arbovirus-Entomology Team.

The role requires strong lab skills in RNA extraction, real-time PCR, cell culture preparation, and accurate data entry in the laboratory information system, with emphasis on quality control, safety, and

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in a chemical, physical, biological or clinical laboratory science or medical technology from an accredited institution.
• Experience performing molecular testing, including real-time RT-PCR, preferred but not required.
• Laboratory experience detecting and identifying viruses preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

• EJF 1: coordinate mosquito identification and ensure supplies; enter results in LIMS. (≤140 chars)
• EJF 2: perform complex molecular testing including real-time PCR; analyze Ct values. (≤140 chars)
• EJF 3: coordinate procedures for isolation and identification of arboviruses; manage cell cultures. (≤140 chars)
• EJF 4: enter and validate results in LIMS and notify parties of significant results. (≤140 chars)
• EJF 5: prepare media and reagents; perform quality control testing. (≤140 chars)
• EJF 6: prepare cell cultures for arbovirus isolation and maintain cell lines. (≤140 chars)
• EJF 7: assist with new procedures and ongoing education; stay current with literature. (≤140 chars)
• EJF 8: comply with guidelines; participate in disaster response and COOP as needed. (≤140 chars)

Skills

Molecular testing

RT-PCR

Data entry

Teamwork

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s or higher in lab science

Tools

Laboratory equipment

Job description

Texas Department of State Health Services in Austin seeks a Molecular Biologist II to identify arthropods, including mosquitoes, for arbovirus isolation and molecular testing under supervision. You will train others and assist with workflow and stock management in the Arbovirus-Entomology Team.

The role requires strong lab skills in RNA extraction, real-time PCR, cell culture preparation, and accurate data entry in the laboratory information system, with emphasis on quality control, safety, and