Serology/DNA Operations Technician

Duties:

Under the direction of the Forensic Genetics Director, the employee performs:

• Scientific examination and analysis of biological evidence collected in connection with death and criminal investigations.
• Testing may include screening for the presence of biological fluids and DNA analysis using PCR/STR based methods.
• Analyst may be required to testify regarding analysis in a court of law as an expert witness in legal proceedings.
• Conducts scientific laboratory examinations and analyses of specimens submitted by forensic pathologists and law enforcement officers from medico-legal and criminal cases.
• Prepares written reports that support the analytical findings and provide testimony as an expert witness in legal proceedings.
• Maintains at least a minimum level of productivity as determined by Forensic Genetics Laboratory Director.
• Participates in training, competency testing, and proficiency testing according to established protocols.
• Successfully completes proficiency testing requirements.
• Operates and maintains laboratory instruments.
• Trains new lab employees as delegated by the Forensic Genetics Director.
• Participates in peer review of cases.
• Assists in ensuring the laboratory remains in compliance with the ANAB accreditation standards and the FBI Quality Assurance Standards for Forensic DNA Testing Laboratories.
• Maintains American Board of Criminalistics certification and ANAB standards and the FBI Quality Assurance Standards by attending continuing education/training courses, workshops, seminars, conferences and professional meetings..
• Follows rigorously all Safety, Method Manual, and Quality Assurance / Quality Control protocols.
• Traces Evidence DNA Collection Team duties as applicable.
• Performs other duties as assigned by the Forensic Genetics Director or the Crime Laboratory Director.

Requirements:

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science degree in Biology, Chemistry, Forensic Science or a related field of physical science and
• One year of laboratory experience.
• OR A graduate level degree in Biology, Chemistry, Forensic Science or a related field of physical science can substitute for the required laboratory experience.
• Successful completion of a minimum of nine semester hours (or equivalent) of coursework in Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology.
• College coursework in the subject areas of statistics and/or population genetics.
• The job requires work with laboratory chemicals and various biological fluids – potential exposure to blood borne pathogens.
• Must be able to lift a minimum of 40 lbs. and sit or stand for long periods.
• Must have visual acuity sufficient to perceive minute differences and details and to withstand the strain of continued close work.
• Must successfully pass a test for colorblindness.
• Must have manual dexterity sufficient to conduct laboratory tasks as determined by the Forensic Genetics Director.
• Must provide a DNA sample to be maintained by the Forensic Genetics Laboratory for quality assurance purposes.
• A valid driver's license and the ability to safely operate a motor vehicle.
• The employee must follow all established protocols and procedures and may be assigned other tasks as deemed necessary by the Forensic Genetics Director.

Additional Requirements:

• American Board of Criminalistics certification is required within two years of hire date.
• Upon employment, the employee shall take and pass the licensure examination provided by the Texas Forensic Science Commission.
• Refer to Texas Administrative Code, Title 37, Part 15, Chapter 651, Subchapter C, Rule §651.207 for additional licensure requirements.

Preferences

• Master of Science degree in Biology, Chemistry, Forensic Science or a related field of physical science with successful completion of a minimum of nine semester hours (or equivalent) of coursework in Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology.
• College coursework in the subject areas of statistics and/or population genetics.
• 0ne (1) year of laboratory experience conducting DNA tests in a forensic DNA laboratory.
• Knowledge of forensic DNA principles, laboratory techniques and technology.
• Knowledge of the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), Short Tandem Repeat (STR) analysis, and capillary electrophoresis methods.
• Knowledge of biological evidence collection and preservation techniques, rules of evidence, forensic serology, basic human anatomy and physiology, and basic laboratory safety.
• Experience with evidence screening, DNA extraction, quantification, PCR amplification of STR fragments, and ABI 310 Genetic Analyzer and/or ABI 3100 Genetic Analyzer.
• Computer literacy in the use of Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Access and PowerPoint) and familiarity with database applications such as JusticeTrax LIMS and CODIS.
• Membership in one or more professional forensic organizations and certification in a related area from the American Board of Criminalistics (ABC).

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