Job Description

SUMMARY

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and Heluna Health invite applications for a full-time Senior Microbiologist in the CDPH Viral and Rickettsial Disease Laboratory (VRDL). We are a team that works hard, appreciates each other, and strives to build a culture of equity, care, and participation in decisions that affect our work.  The candidate will support efforts to enhance surveillance for viral vaccine preventable diseases and rickettsia by assisting with the development and optimization of real-time PCR detection methods and NGS sequencing protocols for measles, mpox, and hepatitis A viruses and Rickettsia. The Senior Microbiologist will also support other NGS activities at CDPH related to sequence generation and data analysis for phylogenetics, genomic epidemiology, and other characterizations of vaccine preventable viruses and rickettsial pathogens.

The ideal candidate should have a solid laboratory background in molecular microbiology (virology preferred), laboratory experience in metagenomic and targeted sequencing methods, and molecular assay design (e.g., PCR, real-time PCR). Knowledge of bioinformatics and pathogen genomics is desired. The incumbent is also expected to stay up to date with scientific literature and contribute to the laboratory academically by assisting with abstracts and manuscripts.

The salary range for this position is $93,603.60 to $110,244.24 annually depending on experience/qualifications.

A cover letter and resume must be submitted with your application.

If hired for this position, applicant will be required to provide proof of full vaccination for COVID-19 prior to the start date or have a valid religious or medical reason qualifying the applicant for an exemption (that may or may not require accommodation).

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS  

• Design, validate, and implement complex molecular methods for the detection and characterization of diseases of public health importance, including measles, mumps, mpox, and hepatitis A viruses and spotted fever group Rickettsia, with particular emphasis on implementation and use of whole genome sequencing technologies.
• Organize and perform scientific research on viral pathogens and rickettsia using real-time PCR, end-point PCR, and NGS methods in collaboration with other research scientists.
• Work as part of a research team to develop and implement new workflows, molecular assays, and analyses for genomic characterization of pathogens.
• Maintain organized and detailed laboratory records and assist with scientific writing such as SOPs, reports, posters, and manuscripts.
• Adhere and contribute to Quality Assurance protocols and standards.
• Follow safety and quality control procedures in the handling of hazardous biological and chemical materials.
• Participate in training of other technical staff and scientists.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS  

• Proficiency in molecular biology techniques
• Experience with NGS methods (metagenomic and/or targeted library prep) required
• Proficiency in using bioinformatics software such as Geneious
• Knowledge and experience in laboratory work environments with potentially infectious organisms (BSL-2 minimum)
• Ability to conduct and report on scientific experiments while maintaining careful attention to detail, safety, and good laboratory practices
• Ability to perform micromanipulations such as pipetting small volumes and other fine measurements using laboratory equipment
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills required. Must work well with others. A positive and self-motivated style needed. Ability to meet deadlines and multi-task.

Education/Experience  

• A Master’s degree in a biological science required; PhD preferred (degree conferred by start date)
• 3+ years’ experience working in a microbiology laboratory setting, with 2+ years’ experience in molecular methods

• At least 1 year experience in whole genome sequencing
• Bioinformatics experience desired

Certificates/Licenses/Clearances

  Possession of a California Public Health Microbiologist (PHM) certification or eligible for PHM training is preferred but not required

Other Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities  

• Computer skills (Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)
• Ability to effectively communicate verbally and in writing
• Ability to work independently and adapt to varied work settings
• Ability to work effectively with a team of diverse individuals

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Stand: Frequently
• Walk: Frequently
• Sit: Frequently
• Handling / Fingering: Occasionally
• Reach Outward: Occasionally
• Reach Above Shoulder: Occasionally
• Climb, Crawl, Kneel, Bend: Occasionally
• Lift / Carry: Occasionally - Up to 15 lbs
• Push/Pull: Occasionally - Up to 15 lbs
• See (Vision): Constantly
• Taste/ Smell: Not Applicable

KEY

• Not Applicable = Not required for essential functions
• Occasionally = (0 - 2 hrs/day)
• Frequently = (2+ - 5 hrs/day)
• Constantly = (5+ hrs/day)

WORK ENVIRONMENT

  General Office and Laboratory Setting, Indoors, Temperature Controlled

EEOC STATEMENT

It is the policy of Heluna Health to provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants, without regard to age (40 and over), national origin or ancestry, race, color, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, pregnancy or perceived pregnancy, reproductive health decision making, physical or mental disability, medical condition (including cancer or a record or history of cancer), AIDS or HIV, genetic information or characteristics, veteran status or military service.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

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