Molecular Diagnostics Technician-Assistant Quality Manager

Upenn; Kennett Square (Chester County); On-site; GBP 38,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Pennsylvania is seeking a Molecular Diagnostics Technician-Assistant Quality Manager in Kennett Square, PA. You will perform diagnostic testing on avian and mammalian samples using PCR and sequencing, and support laboratory-wide QA activities.

This role requires a Bachelor's degree in Biology or related field with 1–2 years of experience, and strong communication and computer skills. The position is contingent upon grant funding and offers competitive benefits.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Biology or related field; 1–2 years' relevant experience.
• Experience performing PCR testing preferred.
• Strong QA and laboratory QA process familiarity.

Responsibilities

• Perform molecular diagnostics for avian and mammalian pathogens, including RT PCR and sequencing.
• Oversee QA tasks in the Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory including calibration, documentation updates, and method validation.
• Accession, result, and finalize cases in the computer-based laboratory information management system (LIMS).
• Attend Quality Assurance Committee meetings and PADLS scientific discipline meetings.
• Prepare samples for diagnostic testing and participate in required trainings.

Skills

PCR testing

Molecular diagnostics

Quality Assurance

Education

Bachelor's degree in Biology

Tools

LIMS

Job description

University Overview

The University of Pennsylvania, the largest private employer in Philadelphia, is a world-renowned leader in education, research, and innovation. This historic, Ivy League school consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in the annual U.S. News & World Report survey. Penn has 12 highly-regarded schools that provide opportunities for undergraduate, graduate and continuing education, all influenced by Penn's distinctive interdisciplinary approach to scholarship and learning. As an employer Penn has been ranked nationally on many occasions with the most recent award from Forbes who named Penn one of America's Best Large Employers in 2023.

Penn offers a unique working environment within the city of Philadelphia. The University is situated on a beautiful urban campus, with easy access to a range of educational, cultural, and recreational activities. With its historical significance and landmarks, lively cultural offerings, and wide variety of atmospheres, Philadelphia is the perfect place to call home for work and play.

The University offers a competitive benefits package that includes excellent healthcare and tuition benefits for employees and their families, generous retirement benefits, a wide variety of professional development opportunities, supportive work and family benefits, a wealth of health and wellness programs and resources, and much more.

Posted Job Title

Molecular Diagnostics Technician-Assistant Quality Manager

Job Profile Title

Research Specialist B

Job Description Summary

This position will perform diagnostic testing on avian and mammalian samples, including molecular assays (PCR) and virus isolation. A computer-based laboratory management system is used to accession, result, and finalize case results. In addition, this position will also assist with laboratory-wide Quality Assurance Activities. Strong communication and computer skills are necessary. This position is located in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania

Job Responsibilities

• Assist with laboratory-wide QA activities including: SOP review process, archival of records, logbook verification, internal and PADLS interlaboratory audit, and preparation. Escalate and report any identified errors and deviations to ensure investigations are initiated and progressing in a timely manner.
• Assist with laboratory-wide QA activities including: SOP review process, archival of records, logbook verification, internal and PADLS interlaboratory audit, and preparation. Escalate and report any identified errors and deviations to ensure investigations are initiated and progressing in a timely manner.
• Assist with laboratory-wide QA activities including: SOP review process, archival of records, logbook verification, internal and PADLS interlaboratory audit, and preparation. Escalate and report any identified errors and deviations to ensure investigations are initiated and progressing in a timely manner.
• Perform molecular diagnostics for various avian and mammalian pathogens, including RT PCR and sequencing.
• Oversee and maintain QA related tasks in the Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory including: timer and thermometer calibrations, documentation updates, and new method development and validation.
• Attend Quality Assurance Committee meetings and designated PADLS Scientific Discipline meetings.
• Accession, result, and finalize cases in the computer-based laboratory information management system.
• Prepare samples for diagnostic testing
• Participate in required trainings (onsite and offsite) and proficiency testing
• Perform basic housekeeping duties in BSL2 plus facility
• Perform additional duties as assigned
• This position is contingent upon grant funding.

Education & Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Biology or a related field and 1 to 2 years of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience is required. Experience performing PCR testing is preferred.

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

Requires extensive safety training, alternative work schedules, exposure to chemicals. Requires protective devices. Typically sitting at a desk or table, Occasional lifting 25-50 lbs.

Job Location - City, State

Kennett Square, Pennsylvania

Department / School

School of Veterinary Medicine

Pay Range

$50,875.00 - $60,000.00 Annual Rate Salary offers are made based on the candidate's qualifications, experience, skills, and education as they directly relate to the requirements of the position, and in alignment with salary ranges based on external market data for the job's level. Internal organization and peer data at Penn are also considered.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The University of Pennsylvania is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates are considered for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, creed, national origin (including shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics) , citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status or any class protected under applicable federal