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Job/Position DescriptionUnder limited supervision of the Virology and Immunology Branch Manager and under the technical guidance of the Clinical Virology Team Lead, performs highly complex (senior-level) and advanced molecular testing following standard or developmental protocols to identify viruses in clinical specimens using Biosafety Level 2 and 3 practices and procedures. Manages the progress of each specimen, ensuring that delays are avoided, and enters and validates results into the laboratory information system. Assists with the development and implementation of additional molecular and diagnostic techniques. Ensures standard protocols and proper quality controls are followed for all tests performed in the laboratory. Assists in evaluating the quality of reagents and in managing material resources. Consults with medical personnel/Epidemiologists regarding test application and interpretation. Trains individuals on molecular techniques. Serves as a senior Molecular Biologist for the Clinical Virology Team, assuming the duties of the Team Lead as required. Assumes additional duties as assigned. Duties are performed with considerable latitude to interpret standard protocol, with considerable use of initiative, scientific knowledge, and judgment.Essential Job FunctionsAttends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.EJF 1. Under the technical guidance of the Virology and Immunology Branch Manager and Clinical Virology Team Lead, develops and performs highly complex (senior-level) molecular biology work. Plans and conducts analysis of specimens using advanced molecular methods for the diagnosis and/or detection of viruses including but not limited to influenza, measles, mumps, Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV), Zika, chikungunya, and dengue in clinical (serum, urine, and other) samples. Processes clinical samples in accordance with current standard operating procedures and regulations. Extracts nucleic acid using both manual and automated extraction methods and performs nucleic acid amplifications using real-time and conventional PCR. Helps the Team Lead coordinate laboratory workflow with other members of the Clinical Virology Team. Coordinates all aspects of influenza laboratory testing surveillance activities including coordination with CDC to submit positive and unsubtypeable specimens to the National Influenza Reference Center (NIRC) or CDC as required. (45%) EJF 2. Verifies and reviews molecular biology test results. Enters, reviews, and validates results in the laboratory information system and adds appropriate comments. Reviews quality control/assurance documentation to ensure established performance parameters are maintained throughout testing procedures. Assists Team Lead in drafting and reviewing standard operating procedures (SOPs). Updates computer data files, software programs, and SOPs as directed by the Team Lead/Branch Manager. May oversee the testing of others. Participates in a cross-training program as both a student and instructor by teaching and/or demonstrating molecular techniques to other laboratory personnel, volunteers or students and by documenting training for staff. Consults with local health departments, LRNs, state epidemiologists, and CDC partners concerning influenza surveillance submissions and other viral specimen submissions and results for diagnostic testing of both surveillance and outbreak specimens. Assists in providing c https://jobshrportal.hhsc.state.tx.us/ENG/CareerPortal/job_profile.cfm?szOrderID=612340 Copy the URL in the preceding sentence to an Internet Explorer browser to apply to the job directly through the Texas Health and Human Services Career Portal.