Microbiologist/Molecular Biologist

Classification: Exempt

Reports To: Geneticist

Under general supervision, the Microbiologist will perform routine qualitative microbiological assays using standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the detection and identification of finfish pathogens including viruses, bacteria, and parasites. Responsibilities include, but not limited to virology/cell culture, bacteriology, molecular biology (PCR), preparation of nucleic acid libraries for sequencing, quantitative PCR analysis for gene expression and viral quantification, necropsies, data entry, media preparation, general maintenance of laboratory space and equipment, and Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC). Other laboratory and field duties as required in support of the fish health and research programs.   

Essential Functions

• Conduct routine microbiological tests for identification of bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens affecting trout and salmon.
• Use sterile technique to maintain and inoculate live aquatic animal cell cultures for the primary isolation and identification of finfish viruses.
• Use standard methods and specialized media for the isolation and identification of finfish bacteria.
• Preparing media and reagents and monitoring inventories of laboratory consumables.
• Cleaning glassware, completing routine maintenance/calibration of laboratory equipment
• Exhibiting familiarity with and adherence to laboratory safety standards and other safety guidance
• Sterile isolation of nucleic acids and proteins from tissue and environmental samples
• Preparation of molecular samples for PCR analysis and/or sequencing
• Work with research personnel to sample and obtain phenotypes and then genotypes of families from multiple species
• Records-keeping related to documentation of microbiological test results, maintenance/calibration of laboratory equipment, etc.  
• Providing prompt, friendly, and courteous service to internal and external customers.
• Continually pursuing sustainability of our natural resources with every decision, decreasing waste and being conscious of individual choices.
• Advocating positive change within our team, empowering one another.
• Completing other duties as required.
• Manage projects and work as assigned.
• Drive company vehicles safely obeying all traffic laws.
• Any other duties as assigned.

Competencies

• Familiarity with laboratory science and use of standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Basic understanding of intensive aquaculture and fish health diagnostics.
• Therapeutic treatments and methodologies for finfish pathogens.
• Competency in molecular biology techniques and processing of molecular samples. 
• Experimental record maintenance.
• Familiarity with methods of identifying finfish bacteria, viruses, and parasites.
• Knowledge of Biosafety Level 2 techniques.
• Competency with Microsoft Office program suite, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Attention to detail, critical thinking, safety, and continual improvement

Supervisory Responsibility

This position has no supervisory responsibilities. 

Work Environment

Employee will work in an office/laboratory environment and outdoor environment. When working in the outdoor environment, the Employee may be exposed to various climates including extreme cold weather and extreme hot weather.

Physical Demands

This job involves medium work exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally and/or up to 50 pounds of lifting. 

The worker will be required to have a range of motion as follows: 

• Often requires sitting or standing for sustained periods of time. 
• Occasionally requires stooping and reaching. 
• Occasionally requires walking, moving, or climbing to accomplish tasks. 
• Lifting is required on an occasional basis.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

This is a full-time position, which could include occasional work on Saturdays or Sundays

Travel

Local and regional travel is required. 

Required Education and Experience

• The ability to speak, read, understand, and follow directions with or without reasonable accommodations.
• Knowledge of microbiology and molecular laboratory practices.
• Valid driver’s license and good driving record.

Preferred Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in microbiology, molecular biology or a related field.
• Experience working in a molecular, medical or veterinary diagnostic laboratory.
• Multidisciplinary experience in virology/cell culture, bacteriology, molecular biology, and parasitology.

Additional Eligibility Qualifications

None.

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the Employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.