Senior Microbiologist (VRDL)

SUMMARY

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and Heluna Health invite applications for a full-time Senior Microbiologist in the CDPH Viral and Rickettsial Disease Laboratory (VRDL).

We are a team that works hard, appreciates each other, and strives to build a culture of equity, care, and participation in decisions that affect our work. The candidate will support efforts to enhance surveillance for viral vaccine preventable diseases and rickettsia by assisting with the development and optimization of real-time PCR detection methods and NGS sequencing protocols for measles, mpox, and hepatitis A viruses and Rickettsia.

The Senior Microbiologist will also support other NGS activities at CDPH related to sequence generation and data analysis for phylogenetics, genomic epidemiology, and other characterizations of vaccine preventable viruses and rickettsial pathogens.

The ideal candidate should have a solid laboratory background in molecular microbiology (virology preferred), laboratory experience in metagenomic and targeted sequencing methods, and molecular assay design (e.g., PCR, real-time PCR).

Knowledge of bioinformatics and pathogen genomics is desired.

The incumbent is also expected to stay up to date with scientific literature and contribute to the laboratory academically by assisting with abstracts and manuscripts.

The salary range for this position is $93,603.60 to $110,244.24 annually depending on experience/qualifications.

A cover letter and resume must be submitted with your application.

If hired for this position, applicant will be required to provide proof of full vaccination for COVID-19 prior to the start date or have a valid religious or medical reason qualifying the applicant for an exemption (that may or may not require accommodation).

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS 


* Design, validate, and implement complex molecular methods for the detection and characterization of diseases of public health importance, including measles, mumps, mpox, and hepatitis A viruses and spotted fever group Rickettsia, with particular emphasis on implementation and use of whole genome sequencing technologies.


* Organize and perform scientific research on viral pathogens and rickettsia using real-time PCR, end-point PCR, and NGS methods in collaboration with other research scientists.


* Work as part of a research team to develop and implement new workflows, molecular assays, and analyses for genomic characterization of pathogens.


* Maintain organized and detailed laboratory records and assist with scientific writing such as SOPs, reports, posters, and manuscripts.


* Adhere and contribute to Quality Assurance protocols and standards.


* Follow safety and quality control procedures in the handling of hazardous biological and chemical materials.


* Participate in training of other technical staff and scientists.


* Perform other related duties as assigned.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS 


* Proficiency in molecular bio...