Molecular Diagnostics Technologist — PCR & Nucleic Acids

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

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.