Laboratory Technologist

Position Function:

The Veterinary Laboratory Technologist in Molecular Diagnostics performs routine and high-throughput molecular diagnostic testing to support the detection and characterization of animal pathogens. The position focuses on PCR-based assays and related molecular techniques, ensuring accurate, timely, and quality-compliant results to support veterinary diagnostic services.

Salary Grade: 13

Please see Staff Compensation Structure or Skilled Crafts and Service Maintenance Compensation Schedule for salary ranges. For salary grade UC, these positions are "Unclassified" and salary ranges are determined by the hiring department.

Area of Specialization:

MVRDL

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Sample preparation, and nucleic acid extraction (DNA/RNA) from a variety of veterinary specimens

2. Set up and run molecular assays, including conventional and real-time PCR (qPCR) methodologies following established SOPs

3. Conduct post-amplification analysis and preliminary result review in accordance with laboratory protocols

4. Operate, maintain, and calibrate molecular laboratory instrumentation (e.g., thermocyclers, extraction platforms)

5. Document all procedures, results, and QC data in the laboratory information system (LIMS) or other databases

6. Assist in troubleshooting assay performance and resolving technical issues under supervision

7. Prepare reagents, controls, and consumables required for molecular workflows

8. Participate in validation, verification, or optimization of molecular diagnostic assays (e.g., new PCR panels, sequencing support)

9. Contribute to inventory management, ordering, and stocking of laboratory supplies

10. Collaborate with diagnosticians, faculty, and other laboratory sections to ensure timely reporting of results

11. Participation in NAHLN proficiency testing and QA audits (AAVLD accreditation)

12. Support the laboratory quality assurance program, maintaining strict adherence to quality assurance (QA), biosafety, and contamination control procedures

13. Participate in the laboratory's response to foreign animal disease investigations or outbreak situations, including collecting samples from submitters' vehicles and performing vehicle disinfection.

14. Participate in a weekend and holiday on-call rotation from October through March, with assignments occurring approximately once per month.

15. Ensure compliance with all safety regulations and federal guidelines related to biosecurity and waste disposal.

16. Perform other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

1. Bachelor's degree in Biology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or equivalent in comparable veterinary or medical science degree.

2. Basic knowledge of molecular biology techniques (PCR, nucleic acid extraction)

Preferred Qualifications:

1. Experience in a diagnostic or research laboratory performing PCR testing

2. Experience with real-time PCR platforms, LIMS, and automated extraction systems

3. Familiarity with veterinary diagnostic testing (e.g., poultry, livestock, or companion animals)

4. MS in a science related field

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent multitasking skills.
• Excellent time management and prioritization
• Skill in the use of computers and working knowledge of word processing, spreadsheet, and database software packages.
• Ability to maintain quality, safety, and/or infection control standards
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-throughput laboratory environment
• Proactivity and initiative

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

• Work is normally performed in a typical interior/laboratory work environment.
• Duties will require the use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including lab coats and gloves, as well as adherence to biosafety protocols when handling biological specimens.
• The employee is frequently required to stand for long periods, walk, use hands to manipulate, handle or feel, reach with hands and arms.
• Work hours may vary, including occasionally working after 5:00 pm, weekends and holidays
• Vision requirements: Ability to see information in print and/or electronically.

Instructions for Applying:

Link to apply: http://explore.msujobs.msstate.edu/

Link to apply: http://explore.msujobs.msstate.edu/

Please include Cover Letter and Resume along with names and addresses of at least three references.

Restricted Clause:

Position is contingent upon continued availability of funding.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

Mississippi State University is an equal opportunity institution. Discrimination is prohibited in university employment, programs or activities based on race, color, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, or any other status to the extent protected by applicable law. Questions about equal opportunity programs or compliance should be directed to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance, 231 Famous Maroon Band Street, P.O. 6044, Mississippi State, MS 39762, (662) 325-5839.

What do I do if I need an accommodation?

In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi State University, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at tel: (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu.

If you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human Resources Management at (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu. Upon request, sections of this job listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.