GTL Job Description

Position Offered: Senior DNA Analyst

The Genetic Testing Laboratory (GTL) is part of New Mexico State University and is located in Las Cruces, New Mexico. GTL performs DNA human identity tests using the most advanced technology and discriminating tests available. In addition to paternity tests, we help resolve issues related to DNA identification including other family relationships, criminal investigations, immigration validation, and inheritance claims. The GTL website address is http://www.gtldna.com/.

GTL is accredited by the AABB as a Parentage Testing Laboratory, and as such, all accredited parentage tests are performed according to AABB standards.

Position Description and Responsibilities

We are seeking a Senior DNA Analyst. The position would be located in Las Cruces, New Mexico. The successful candidate will be trained in GTL laboratory procedures and operations to conduct DNA parentage tests according to AABB standards and will report to the GTL Laboratory Manager. Once trained, this person would act as Laboratory Manager during the absence of the Manager. Salary can be negotiated and will depend on experience and education.

Education

Bachelors in Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, or Molecular Biology with four years experience (see below), or Masters in one of these fields and three years experience.

Experience

Three or four years experience (depending on education) as a DNA Analyst at an accredited DNA parentage or forensic laboratory using PCR methodology with STR systems is required. Specific experience in the following is preferred:

• Operation and programming of the ABI Prism 3100 Genetic Analyzer
• Operation and programming of the Biomek 2000 liquid handling robot
• Knowledge of the statistics and mathematics of paternity and other human relatedness calculations
• Knowledge of the AABB standards for DNA parentage testing laboratories
• Laboratory batch release methodology
• Quality systems (ISO, A2LA, EN)
• Chemical safety requirements for laboratories including proper disposal of waste materials
• Techniques involved in collecting, identifying, and preserving DNA samples
• Supervision of laboratory staff
• Working knowledge of personal computer systems and office software

Experience in an accredited DNA forensic laboratory would be especially valuable, as GTL intends to become accredited in forensics.

Duties

The successful candidate will be expected to

• Independently perform DNA paternity and other parentage tests
• Be familiar with all laboratory SOPs, including those in financial tracking and case management
• Work with human biological samples including the preparation, quantification and analysis of samples
• Work with reagents, samples, and solutions for DNA analyses in a laboratory environment
• Maintain inventories of supplies for the lab
• Clean, maintain, and calibrate laboratory equipment

Duties to be performed also include

• Preparing human biological samples for analysis
• Preparing reagents and solutions for use in DNA tests
• Calibrating and documenting actions on laboratory apparatus, equipment, glassware, instruments, and safety devices
• Purchasing lab supplies
• Operating laboratory instruments on a routine basis
• Creating and maintaining laboratory records and updating case files
• Performing additional lab duties as required by the Laboratory Manager