Clinical Lab Scientist

Perform test procedures in Molecular Diagnostics. Responsible for pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical processes associated with specimen processing, test performance and reporting test results.

Perform isolation of DNA and RNA from human blood and bone marrow specimens using manual and automated techniques to set-up molecular assays and perform analysis of data. Experience with PCR, qPCR, capillary electrophoresis, and other molecular platforms is preferred.

Transcribe and report test results. Operate laboratory instrumentation & equipment to accurately generate test results.

Initiate troubleshooting of errant laboratory instrumentation & equipment as needed. Follow established quality control procedures and participate in all associated tasks in the section.

65% Task A: Perform Molecular Diagnostic Procedures

Standards:

1. Performs all procedures listed in the Molecular Diagnostics procedure files.

1. Completes required training and competency assessments within the assigned time frames.

1. Learns and performs any new procedure within a reasonable time frame.

1. Performs procedures in a manner, which does not deviate from the SOPs. Any deviation from the procedure must be approved by supervisor or medical director prior to performing the test. Questionable result should be reviewed by supervisor or medical director prior to sending any results.

1. Performs procedures in an accurate and efficient manner.

1. Be responsible for procedural updates by reviewing procedures on an annual basis, checking posted and emailed updates, bench log book and by reading and initialing all meeting notes.

1. Integrates assigned tasks in order to complete the assignments by the end of the work shift.

1. Maintains a reasonable work speed to complete the assignments by the end of the work shift. Completes test procedures and transmits results in the laboratory computer system within established turn-around times (TATs).

1. Reads and consults SOPs to be familiar with the procedure or when problem or questions arise.

1. Maintains a clean and neat work area and exercises proper care and precautions to protect oneself from health hazards.

1. Wears a buttoned lab coat, gloves plus all other appropriate personal protective equipment at all times while performing tests.

1. Signs and dates worksheet each time a procedure is performed.

1. Labels worksheet with name of test procedure, if applicable.

1. Works well without close or continual supervision.

1. Accepts a reasonable increase in the workload when necessary or assigned by a supervisor.

1. Repeats any test run when requested to do so by a specialist and or supervisor.

1. Analyzes designated quality control material with all procedures.

1. Repeats any test run in which controls are outside the posted control ranges.

1. Describes any test problem and documents actions taken on the appropriate form or worksheet.

1. Reports questionable results and any quality control problems to specialist and or supervisor.

1. Records results of quality control results on worksheet and sends control results to the computer.

1. Performs special studies or projects when added to routine procedure run or when assigned separately.

1. Takes full responsibility for errors when committed, notifies required personnel, and completes appropriate documentation.

1. Labels specimens, reagents, and analysis containers in a legible and neat manner with ink pen.

1. Maintains a clean and neat work area. Replenish supplies and prepare reagents as needed.

1. Stores and discards completed samples appropriately per each bench or test requirement.

10% Task B:

Transcribe and report Molecular Diagnostics test results to worksheets and computer, inform appropriate personnel as required.

1. Carefully reviews results before forwarding to the computer.

1. Records/transcribes results legibly and initials worksheet neatly so that all other lab personnel can read and interpret the results.

1. Reviews results and validates on computer screen before releasing the results to the LIS (Laboratory Information System).

1. Records, transcribes, and sends results to the computer correctly.

2. Never alters patient test results in any way after they have been released to the LIS except through accepted procedure with documentation.

1. Consults unusual results, to specialist, supervisor and or resident in a timely manner (if applicable).

1. Call panic value results (if applicable) to unit or MD and enters appropriate English Text Code and documentation. Notifies resident of issues with calling result.

20% Task C:

Operate laboratory equipment and analytical instruments in the performance of Molecular Diagnostics procedures.

1. Operates laboratory equipment and analytical instruments in a proper and efficient manner.

1. Evaluates the proper performance of laboratory equipment and instrumentation and notifies the supervisor of any malfunction.

1. Initiates troubleshooting and works with supervisor/specialist when a malfunction occurs.

1. Never modifies or alters the equipment or instrumentation without consulting supervisor/specialists.

1. Performs equipment and instrument maintenance as assigned or instructed by a supervisor/specialist. Signs and dates log sheets after performing maintenance procedures.

1. Operates equipment and instrumentation without close or continual supervision.

1. Notify the first available supervisor or specialist of malfunction. If no supervisor or specialist on site, and if an instrument cannot be used until repaired, call tech-support for earliest service arrangement.

1. Records malfunction and corrective action in instrument problem log. Notifies supervisor, specialist and or bench staff of pending service calls.

1. Maintains a reasonable work speed and integrates instrumental parameters so as to complete the work assignment before the end of the work shift.

5% Task D:

Maintains a cooperative behavior and acceptable attendance record.

1. Consults bulletin board every working day for notices and announcements.

1. Informs the specialist or supervisor when he/she completes the assigned work.

1. Informs the specialist or supervisor earliest possible if assigned work cannot be completed by the end of work shift.

1. Informs supervisor of any problems relating to work area.

1. Consults each day the posted weekday work rotation schedule and the weekend work schedule.

1. Accepts a daily job rotation reassignment when necessary.

1. Responds professionally to a reasonable request from a supervisor.

1. Behaves in a professional manner with other hospital personnel, visitors, co-workers, and supervisors.

1. Takes only allotted time on lunch and breaks.

1. Reports to work on time and does not leave before the end of the shift without permission from a supervisor.

1. Cooperates with co-workers.

1. Notifies relevant Molecular Diagnostics personnel of absenteeism or lateness at least 15 minutes before the work shift starts.

1. Maintains a neat and clean dress appearance reflecting professionalism.

1. Manages a stressful laboratory situation in a manner that causes a minimal disruption in laboratory testing and the least distraction to laboratory workers.

1. Adheres to all policies and procedures established in the Clinical Laboratory Personnel Policies.

Required Qualifications:

• California Clinical Laboratory Scientist license or Clinical Genetics Molecular Biologist license
• Bachelor of Science degree

• The flexibility to orient and work at all UCSF Medical Center locations is required

Preferred Qualifications:

• Recent clinical experience in molecular diagnostics laboratory
• Previous experience in high-volume clinical laboratory testing
• Experience with current automation used in the Molecular Diagnostics section

Required Licenses/Certifications:

• California Clinical Laboratory Scientist license or Clinical Genetics Molecular Biologist (CGMBS) license

Required Qualifications:

• California Clinical Laboratory Scientist license or Clinical Genetics Molecular Biologist license
• Bachelor of Science degree

• The flexibility to orient and work at all UCSF Medical Center locations is required

Preferred Qualifications:

• Recent clinical experience in molecular diagnostics laboratory
• Previous experience in high-volume clinical laboratory testing
• Experience with current automation used in the Molecular Diagnostics section

Required Licenses/Certifications:

• California Clinical Laboratory Scientist license or Clinical Genetics Molecular Biologist (CGMBS) license