Scientist I - Microbiology

Agency

Department

Working at TVMDL

Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (TVMDL) is an integral part of the Texas A&M University System (TAMUS). It consists of four lab locations spread across Texas; two full-service laboratories located in Canyon and College Station and two poultry laboratories in Center and Gonzales. TVMDL is the only state agency entirely dedicated to protecting animal and public health through diagnostic testing.  

TVMDL is a state-of-the-art veterinary diagnostic laboratory that collects hundreds of data points concerning veterinary diagnostics and population health each day. TVMDL is a state agency under the TAMUS umbrella that serves the veterinary community and is an independent entity from the TAMU Vet School and College of Veterinary Medicine.  

Texas A&M System employees are eligible for health, dental, vision, and life insurance programs for employees and their family. Other standard benefits include generous retirement plans, Employee Assistance Program, Employee Wellness Program, flexible spending accounts, as well as paid holiday, sick, and vacation leave.  

In addition, TVMDL offers its employees opportunities to participate in an educational reimbursement plan; discounted diagnostic testing, veterinary care, and pet supplies; a formal career ladder for advancement; and continuing education opportunities. 

TVMDL is considered an essential component of the Texas A&M University System (TAMUS) and remains operational for a number of “open holidays” in which overtime or compensatory time may be earned. For information on TVMDL’s holiday schedule, visit our website. 

TVMDL-Canyon is located on the campus of West Texas A&M University (WTAMU). Parking permits are available from WTAMU at the expense of the employee. Our Canyon location also offers reduced-cost membership to the WTAMU Recreation Center.

Position-specific Information:

• This position requires a pre-exposure rabies vaccination series; TVMDL will cover all costs.  
• This position is required to work onsite during normal business hours M-F 8 am – 5 pm, but participate in flex scheduling by working 9 am - 6 pm.
• Upon adequate training, technicians in this section are required to participate in a Saturday rotation with fellow staff members.    
• This position is eligible for the partially remote alternative work location (PRAWL) program for a maximum of 16 hours per week after 6 months of service. 
• This position is eligible for visa sponsorship.

Job Description Summary

The Scientist I - Microbiology, under general direction, performs routine and non-routine, complex diagnostic assays using state of the art equipment and techniques with minimal technical supervision. Interprets test results, communicates with clients and collaborates with colleagues. May teach/train/mentor Technicians in diagnostic techniques. May oversee the maintenance of the physical area within the laboratory. Assists in implementing new technologies and diagnostic capabilities.

Responsibilities

Sample Prep, Sample Cataloging: Oversees sample processing and preparation performed by Technicians, providing training and correction when necessary. May perform complex sample extraction and/or preparation techniques per kit inserts and SOPs. Responsible for samples collected/cataloged for assay research and validation.

Testing: Participates in routine diagnostic testing, including filling in for Technicians when necessary. Prepares reagents, standards and controls as needed. Troubleshoots complex assays or instrument problems by recognizing sources of possible errors and implementing steps for resolution of errors or process improvements. Ability to implement non-routine assays. Proficient in relevant tests run at the section. Participates in NAHLN, USDA, and Vet-LIRN programs when relevant to the discipline. Performs a variety of testing for diagnostic purposes, USDA regulatory diseases, and USDA-Surveillance programs.

Data Entry, Interpretation, Results: May review and release results for tests performed by Technician staff. Interprets results that require complex subjective evaluation. Reviews and makes adjustments to observations, results and measurements by Technicians when scientifically appropriate.

Client Communication: Communicates test results, interpretations, recommendations, and answers complex questions. Interacts with clients in the identification and development of new assays to benefit TVMDL and its clients. Participates in meetings with industry representatives to discuss and design research efforts.

Quality Assurance & Safety: Leads by example in regard to quality assurance and safety activities amongst Technicians. Assists section leadership in resolving issues of noncompliance and nonconformance. Assists section managers with audits and visits by external clientele and agencies. Responsible for safe handling and disposal of hazardous chemicals when relevant.

SOPs, Procedures, Forms, Other Documentation: Serves as subject matter expert for one or more assays, protocols or instruments used in routine laboratory testing. Writes and/or edits SOPs for routine procedures. When needed, serves as document editor for SOPs, procedures, forms or other documents related to section protocols.

Research, Reference Materials, Development: Assists in new assay development and validation, including test development, instrument configuration and documentation of assay protocols to meet the diagnostic testing needs of TVMDL and TVMDL clients.

Supplies, Stock, Inventory, Equipment: Responsible for ensuring instrumentation is calibrated, maintenance is performed and documented, and all technical aspects are in proper working order. Responsible for quality control monitoring of routine laboratory instruments and equipment, including but not limited to thermometers, pipettes, eye wash stations, etc. Ensures appropriate stocking and inventory for supplies, reagents and chemicals.

Administrative Duties: Coordinates paperwork associated with infectious agents identified and/or shipped from TVMDL. Serves as a liaison with other testing sections to resolve accessioning, sample, or other paperwork issues associated with diagnostic cases. May recommend, assist in drafting and aid in implementing laboratory policies and procedures.

Training and Mentorship: Mentors and provides technical training to Technicians. Successfully completes proficiency testing in all assays performed within the section. Assists section leadership in designing, administering and evaluating proficiency panels.

Supervisory, Evaluation, Employee Support: Assists Lab Supervisor, Section Head, and/or Assistant Section Head in oversight of technical staff performing routine testing.

Teamwork & Cooperation: Collaborates with colleagues in other sections, TVMDL locations and other veterinary diagnostic laboratories across the country in development and pursuit of scientific advancement. Participates in industry recognized meetings and affiliations to gain knowledge within the relevant scientific disciplines and industries.

Other: Work shall be performed with adherence to federal, state, Texas A&M University System, and TVMDL safety rules, regulations, policies and procedures. Performs work in such a way as to not expose others or self to hazards that are avoidable by reasonable and approved methods. Works in conjunction with Diagnostic Services and Marketing to actively promote new or modified tests, TVMDL services or other client-education topics by writing and/or editing copy, speaking at conferences or meetings, or participating in TVMDL-sponsored exhibit shows. Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Required Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree or higher in a related field or any equivalent combination of training and experience.

• Two years of related experience.

Preferred Education and Experience:

• Two+ years technical experience in scientific research, clinical, experimental or diagnostic work.

• Experience working within a quality assurance and safety program.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Independently report laboratory results, troubleshoot routine technical and scientific problems and recommend solutions.

• Able to understand more advanced computer software programs, including programs for data analysis, statistical analysis, graphing, etc.

A cover letter and resume/CV are required to successfully apply for this position. You may upload these on the application under CV/Resume, pre-populate the online application using a LinkedIn profile, or attach the documents. Failure to provide all job application data or a complete resume could result in an invalid submission and a rejected application.  

Upon invitation to interview, candidates will be asked for 2-3 professional recommendations (to include at least one previous supervisor). Closed-toed shoes and long pants are required attire for the Laboratory environment.   

All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution’s verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution’s procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check. 

This position will require export-control authorization prior to starting employment. 

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer. 

All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution’s verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution’s procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.