Molecular Biologist - PCR

  • Full-time

Company Description

Eurofins Scientific is an international life sciences company, providing a unique range of analytical testing services to clients across multiple industries, to make life and our environment safer, healthier and more sustainable. From the food you eat, to the water you drink, to the medicines you rely on, Eurofins works with the biggest companies in the world to ensure the products they supply are safe, their ingredients are authentic and labelling is accurate. Eurofins believes it is a global leader in food, environmental, pharmaceutical and cosmetics products testing and in agroscience CRO services. It is also one of the global independent market leaders in certain testing and laboratory services for genomics, discovery pharmacology, forensics, CDMO, advanced material sciences and in the support of clinical studies.

In over just 30 years, Eurofins has grown from one laboratory in Nantes, France to over 47,000 staff across a network of more than 900 independent companies in over 50 countries and operating more than 800 laboratories. Eurofins offers a portfolio of over 200,000 analytical methods to evaluate the safety, identity, composition, authenticity, origin, traceability and purity of biological substances and products, as well as providing innovative clinical diagnostic testing services, as one of the leading global emerging players in specialised clinical diagnostics testing.

In 2019, Eurofins generated total revenues of EUR € 4.56 billion, and has been among the best performing stocks in Europe over the past 20 years.

Job Description

The role of Molecular Support Scientist is responsible for coordination of sample sourcing and maintenance of sample inventory for molecular projects across multiple Diagnostics sites (Kalamazoo, MI; Farum, Denmark). In addition, the candidate will be responsible for the formulation and execution of in vitro molecular diagnostic assay development, verification/validation studies, and assay integration onto proprietary instrumentation. Incumbent will be a member of the sample acquisition team and contribute to cross-functional project teams through hands-on laboratory bench work as outlined below.

Scientist responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

·       Regularly performing molecular based assays such as real-time PCR, RT-real-time PCR, droplet digital PCR, standard PCR with gel electrophoresis and next-generation sequencing library preparation

·       Preparing DNA/RNA extractions, both kit-based low-throughput and instrument-based high-throughput procedures, on multiple specimen types (blood, nasal swabs, feces, milk, etc.)

·       Real-time PCR mastermix and assay formulation

·       Occasional bacterial culture from frozen stock to plates using aseptic technique

·       Laboratory housekeeping duties and other general laboratory related tasks, as appropriate.

·       Specimen organizing and cataloging in a database

·       Data entry, verification and handling, record keeping, in accordance with scientific protocols and applicable Standard Operating Procedures

·       Participate in locating and acquiring samples to support molecular diagnostics development.

·       Point-person for molecular sample inventory including documentation of new sample information upon arrival, maintenance of current sample database for freezers and gathering and organizing previous characterization data from multiple sources.

·       Participation in project team meetings, as needed, to update on technical progress and sample acquisition activities.

·       Coordination of all molecular animal study activities, including initiation, Animal Use Protocols, sample aliquoting and testing. Studies may be executed at other facilities or at contract research organizations (domestic and international).

·       Shipment of samples, sample collection materials and test kits to other sites and external partners.

·       If samples are derived from other VMRD projects, ensures risk assessments are completed prior to sample utilization.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate would possess:

·       Good oral and written communication skills are required

·       Computer skills required:  Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, Powerpoint

·       Extensive bench-based experience in developing and productizing molecular diagnostics assays in an industrial setting

·       Ability to develop and maintain effective, trusting work and customer relationships

·       Self-starter, able to prioritize work and work efficiently with minimal supervision

·       The person filling this position will work in a BSL-2 laboratory.  There may be exposure to animal pathogens, chemicals, and biological hazardous materials.  There may be handling of, and/or exposure to, zoonotic organisms

·       Work will be conducted in both lab and office facilities

·       Lifting:  May include occasional lifting up to 40 pounds

Basic Minimum Qualifications :

·       Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in scientific discipline with emphasis in virology/bacteriology/cell culture/molecular biology/medical technology, or related disciplines

·       Minimum 3 years laboratory experience and proven skills in aseptic techniques and biomedical research in a BSL-2 environment.

·       Experience in participating in or leading the development of a molecular diagnostic assay in an industrial setting

·       High familiarity in working with PCR and other molecular techniques

·       Authorization to work in the United States indefinitely without restriction or sponsorship

·       Desired experience working in a matrix environment, where alignment of goals and flexibility in allocating resources across functions is essential to organizational success.

·       Excellent oral and written communications skills.

·       Experience in writing animal study protocols and reports is preferred.

·       Strong interpersonal skills, including negotiating and problem solving.

·       Skilled in organization, prioritization and follow-through.

·       Proficient in English, other languages a plus.

Additional Information

Position is full-time, Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m.-5:00p.m., with overtime as needed.  Candidates currently living in a commutable distance to Kalamazoo, MI  are encouraged to apply.

What we Offer:

  • Excellent full time benefits including comprehensive medical coverage, dental, and vision options

  • Life and disability insurance

  • 401(k) with company match

  • Paid vacation and holidays

Eurofins is a M/F, Disabled, and Veteran Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer.

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