Clinical Translational Scientist

Overview:
Overview:There is a reason St. Jude Children's Research Hospital is consistently ranked on Fortune Magazine's "100 Best Places to Work For" list. At our world-class pediatric research hospital, every one of our professionals share our commitment to make a difference in the lives of the children we serve. There is a unique bond when you're part of a team that gives their all to advance the treatments and cures of pediatric catastrophic diseases. The result is a collaborative, positive environment where everyone, regardless of their role, receives the resources, support and encouragement to advance and grow their careers. Job Summary:

In conjunction with the Molecular Pathology Directors, the Clinical Translational Scientist is responsible for the development and validation of new clinical molecular assays and instrumentation. Leads the improvement of existing tests, and performs research, evaluations, experimental design, and data analysis for next-generation sequencing (NGS) and other high-complexity molecular assays. Assists in preparing clinical validation and protocol documents, as well as presentations and manuscripts, as directed.

Job Responsibilities:

1. Under the supervision of the directors, will provide stewardship of the assay development and instrumentation validation process from concept to clinical testing go-live, including:

a) Participating in validation design, experiments, and execution

b) Generating and updating the technical sections of validation documentation, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and report templates as needed

c) Assisting in the design of clinical workflows, EPIC order builds, laboratory informatics, and other custom informatics as needed

d) Evaluating, recommending, and implementing new procedures, reagents, sequencers, and software as needed for continuous improvement of the Molecular Pathology and Clinical Genomics Laboratory

2. Leads the automation efforts in the clinical molecular laboratory and implements automated next-generation sequencing workflows

on Hamilton instruments.

3. Collaborates with research staff, information sciences, facilities and operations, biomedical engineering, bioinformatics scientists,

and licensed medical technologists in the Molecular Pathology and Clinical Genomics Laboratory for the implementation of new clinical assays.

4. Participates in relevant training of laboratory staff on new assays and instrument implementation into clinical production, as directed.

5. Ensures adequate quality control methods are implemented according to CLIA/CAP standards and address any quality control

issues as they arise.

6. Maintains a variety of cell lines for developing controls for molecular testing and performs a variety of molecular assays in the lab, such as quantitative real-time PCR, capillary electrophoresis and fragment analysis, and next-generation sequencing (NGS) based assay, as directed.

7. Maintains accurate records of work performed, reviews quality control data, and performs corrective action on failed tests, as needed.

8. Troubleshoots technical/non-technical problems of a highly complex nature and continually explores process improvement and efficient operation opportunities.

9. Communicates effectively to molecular pathology directors on the progress of projects and presents results with clarity and accuracy.

10. Perform other related duties as assigned by the laboratory directors in order to meet the goals and objectives of the department

and institution.

11. Participates in continuing education as defined in the Pathology Continuing Education (CE) document.

12. Maintains scientific knowledge base by reading published literature, testing and evaluating new methods, and attending relevant seminars, workshops, or conferences.

13. As directed, participates in presentations and manuscript preparation.

Special Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities:

· Experience in clinical next-generation sequencing assay development and validation is required.

· Experience in using Illumina sequencing platforms, MiSeq, NextSeq 2000, and NovaSeq 6000 is preferred.

· Experience in using high throughput and automation platforms is preferred.

· Knowledge of medical laboratory techniques, regulations, and quality standards are essential to this role.

· Demonstrated ability to follow through with assigned tasks with persistence and self-motivation.

· Highly organized and efficient use of time. Establishes courses of action for self and others to accomplish specific goals.

· Recommends innovative ways of improving efficiency and effectiveness.

· Ability to quickly adapt/be flexible to meet rapidly changing and competing job demands. Revises plans constantly to meet changing circumstances.

· Experience in working on a team project is preferred.

· Ability to understand and interpret complex data patterns.

· Ability to lead, counsel, motivate, coach, mentor, and train other personnel.

· Knowledge of biological, medical, scientific, and technical terminology used in medical research and clinical production is highly preferred.

· Well-organized and systematic in the work process.

· Strong and demonstrable quantitative and analytical skills.

· Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.

About Memphis

This position is based in Memphis, TN; relocation assistance is available. Memphis is a family-friendly metropolitan area that more than a million residents call home. Memphis is recognized for its world-class music, food and hospitality. Cost of living is one of our biggest attractions; in fact, Money listed Memphis as one of the least expensive cities in which to raise a child. Mild winters and beautiful green spaces make the city a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts - there are over 200 miles of bike-friendly lanes with more being added. Forbes recently named Memphis the 4th happiest city in which to work. Why live anywhere else?

Work Schedule:

Monday- Friday 8am - 4:30pm

Take the first step to join our team by applying now!

Minimum Education:
BS required. MS or PhD preferred

Minimum Experience:

· One (1) to five (5) years of relevant work experience in a research or clinical laboratory

· Proven knowledge and experience in next-generation sequencing laboratory assays are required

Required Credentials:
· Tennessee State licensure as a Medical Technologist-General Technologist or Special Analyst-Molecular Biology in assigned laboratory section required or eligible (required to obtain Tennessee State licensure license within six months of employment).

Other Credentials:

What We Offer:

Other Information:

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COVID-19 vaccine:

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital has mandated the COVID-19 vaccine for all employees, excluding those with an approved medical or religious accommodation, as a condition of employment.