Microbiologist

SUMMARY

The position is funded by CDC's Epidemiology and Laboratory Capacity (ELC) cooperative agreement. It is administered by Heluna Health which is a non-profit public health research organization. ELC supports state, local, and territorial health departments to improve laboratory capacity which supports public health laboratory testing, surveillance, and reporting.

Under the general supervision of the Research Scientist Supervisor I, the Microbiologist works within the Mycobacterial Drug Susceptibility and Mycology Unit of the Mycobacterial, Mycotic & Parasitic Diseases Section, Microbial Diseases Laboratory.

The Microbiologist will assist with testing patient specimens for the detection and identification of Candida auris as a part of the Antibiotic Resistance Laboratory Network (ARLN). Under supervision, the Microbiologist will perform molecular and culture-based testing on specimens submitted for C. auris colonization screening to facilitate infection control measures. In addition, the Microbiologist will work with submitters and other ARLN partners to coordinate receipt of specimens and reporting of required data to the CDC. Ability to comply with quality assurance procedures and follow good laboratory and safety practices is required.

If hired for this position, you will be required to provide proof that you are fully vaccinated for COVID-19 prior to your start date or have a valid religious or medical reason qualifying you for an exemption (that may or may not require an accommodation).

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Specimen receipt and data entry for laboratory information management systems (LIMS), including preparing specimen for storage and testing, maintaining culture collection.
Culture and identification of fungal pathogens for epidemiological purposes using conventional and molecular techniques.
Preparation of test reports, result summaries and other relevant documents, including reporting of relevant results and communications with internal and external partners.
Preparation and quality control testing of media and reagents.
Autoclaves, disinfects and disposes of contaminated materials and infectious agents.
Maintains inventory and accurate records of laboratory supplies and fungal isolates.
Assists in the preparation of purchase requests and tracks orders.
Participation in seminars and other scientific meetings as requested.
Performs other related duties as assigned.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS

Experience working with microbial pathogens, preferably in a clinical or public health microbiology laboratory setting.
Experience with routine molecular and culture methods
Knowledge of sterile technique and universal precautions for working with bacterial pathogens.
Computer skills (Microsoft Word, Access, Excel, email).
Ability to effectively communicate verbally and in writing.
Ability to work independently and adapt to varied work settings.
Ability to complete projects in a timely manner.
Ability to work effectively with a team of diverse individuals.
Demonstrated attention to detail.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

Possession of a Bachelor's degree from an accredited university with course work in chemistry, microbiology, medical microbiology and molecular biology is required.
Experience using a PC and a working knowledge of Microsoft Office.
Good communication and interpersonal skills.
Capacity to work independently or in a team environment.

Certificates/Licenses/Clearances

Possession of a current Public Health Microbiologist Certificate is preferred.

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 25 lbs.
Push/Pull Occasionally - Up to 25 lbs.
See Occasionally
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

Laboratory setting, indoor and airflow and temperature controlled.

EEOC STATEMENT

It is the policy of Heluna Health to provide equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.

Heluna Health is an Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity Employer that encourages minorities, women, veterans, and disabled to apply.

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)