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Scientist II

Employer
Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory
Location
College Station, Texas
Salary
Commensurate
Closing date
Jun 3, 2021

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Field of specialization
Analytical, Toxicological
Work Function
Laboratory
Job Type
Full time

About TVMDL:

The Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (TVMDL) was first created by the Texas Legislature in 1967 to serve the state’s livestock industry. Now as part of the Texas A&M University System, TVMDL has grown to include two full-service laboratories and two poultry laboratories serving veterinarians, livestock producers, and government agencies across the state and world. TVMDL has proudly served Texas as the state veterinary diagnostic laboratory for over 50 years. In addition to their history of excellence, TVMDL has also made positive contributions to diagnostic testing, veterinary medicine, and disease surveillance, ensuring future Texans and other stakeholders are safe for years to come.

Annually, TVMDL performs over 900,000 tests from every state and approximately 17 countries. Each day, TVMDL tests hundreds of samples in an effort to protect our clients’ pets, livelihood, and Texas’ 18 billion dollar livestock and poultry industries. Employees work in the fields of science, technology, animal agriculture, and veterinary medicine. However, no matter the field, TVMDL employees contribute daily to the One Health/One Medicine approach of protecting both animal and human health through diagnostics.

Working at TVMDL:

As part of the Texas A&M System, TVMDL offers an array of programs to ensure its employees maintain a healthy work/life balance. These programs include health, dental, vision and System paid life insurance with a financial incentive to offset the cost of health benefits.

Other standard benefits include:

  • Generous retirement plans
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Flexible spending accounts
  • Paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave
  • Opportunities to earn state compensation time
  • Wellness Release Program offering paid leave to exercise

Additional TVMDL employee programs:

  • Formal career ladder
  • Continuing education opportunities
  • A complimentary onsite fitness center with state-of-the art training equipment and showers
  • Free onsite fitness classes such as yoga, Zumba, and circuit training
  • Discounted diagnostic testing, veterinary care, and pet supplies
  • Staff appreciation events throughout the year

The TVMDL laboratory is a secured, state-of-the-art facility full of natural lighting with seating areas that offer a relaxing view of the grounds and pond. Each office is furnished with a sit to stand desk and ergonomic chair.

 If this sounds like your kind of place, apply today.

Position Summary:

Perform routine and non-routine, complex diagnostic assays using state of the art equipment and techniques. Interpret test results and collaborate with colleagues. May teach/train/mentor Technicians in diagnostic techniques, and oversees the maintenance of the physical area within the laboratory.  Develop and validate diagnostic assays and created associated procedures. Implement new technologies and diagnostic capabilities.

Required Education and Experience:

Master's Degree or higher  in a related  field or any equivalent combination of training and experience (six years of experience with a high school diploma or two years of experience with an Associate's  Degree).

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Experience with liquid chromatography - high­ resolution accurate mass spectrometry (LC-HRAMS), liquid chromatography- mass spectrometry (LC-MS), liquid chromatography - tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), and gas chromatography - mass spectrometry (GC-MS), including but not limited to qualitative and quantitative measurements, method development and validation , quality control procedures, instrument trouble shooting and routine maintenance procedures. Knowledge of quality assurance and safety programs in a laboratory.

Sample Prep, Sample Cataloging:

Perform various extraction procedures (acidic, basic, neutral, hydrolysis, and solid phase extraction) on various sample matrices (urine, blood, tissue, feed, and hair) to enhance detection of drugs and toxins. Assist with sample receipt, storage and disposition procedures.

Testing:

Participate in routine diagnostic and anti-doping testing. Prepare reagents, standards, and quality control samples. Troubleshoot complex assay 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 all tests run in the section. Participate in proficiency testing programs. May analyze split samples and referred samples from other laboratories for confirmation.

Data Entry, Interpretation, Results:

Interpret results for tests that require complex subjective evaluation. Ensure documentation for all tests performed in the section meets QA requirements. Review and make adjustments to observations, results, and measurements by Technicians and Student Assistants when scientifically appropriate. Participate in investigation of unexpected results.

Client Communication:

Communicate test results, interpretations, recommendations, and answer complex questions.

Quality Assurance & Safety:

Lead resolution of noncompliance and nonconformance. Assist section managers with audits and visits by external clientele and agencies. Adhere and conform to quality assurance and safety programs and procedures. Participate in continuous improvement of laboratory operations by recommending actions to improve quality assurance and safety.

SOPs, Procedures, Forms, Other Documentation:

Serve as subject matter expert for one or more assays, protocols or instruments used in routine laboratory testing. Write and/or edit SOPs for routine and complex procedures. Serve as document editor for SOPs, procedures, forms or other documents related to section protocols.

Research, Reference Materials, Development:

Lead new assay development and validation, including test development, instrument configuration and documentation of assay protocols. Proactively seek training and educational opportunities to learn about new technologies and processes. Perform research and catalog reference materials.  Write and/or edit scientific publications and presentations documenting research discoveries. Research write and/or edit applications for grant funding.

Supplies, Stock, Inventory, Equipment:

Responsible for ensuring instrumentation is calibrated, maintenance is performed and documented, and all technical aspects are in proper working order. Troubleshoot routine instrument problems and correspond with vendors to implement repairs.

Administrative Roles:

May assist in monitoring and recordkeeping for legal cases and "hold" cases. Recommend, assist in drafting and aid in implementing laboratory policies and procedures.

Training & Mentorship:

Proactively train fellow Scientists and Technicians in new methods, quality assurance, safety or equipment methods.

Supervisory, Evaluation, Employee Support:

Assist Lab Supervisor and/or Section Head in oversight of technical staff performing routine testing.

Teamwork & Cooperation:

Collaborate with colleagues in other sections, TVMDL locations and other veterinary diagnostic Laboratories across the country in development and pursuit of scientific advancement. Participate 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. Perform work in such a way as to not expose others or myself to hazards that are avoidable by reasonable and approved methods.

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/Affirmative Action/Veterans/Disability Employer committed to diversity.

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