DNA Analyst

Duties:

Essential Functions

• Evidence handling to maintain a proper chain of custody and integrity of the evidence.
• Examination of items of evidence to discover, preserve, collect and identify samples for biological analysis.
• Developing DNA profiles from evidential samples and known reference standards using accepted molecular biology techniques.
• Interpretation of scientific data using appropriate software programs, the comparison of evidential profiles to known reference standards and statistical analysis of results.
• Compilation of complete and accurate written reports of findings.
• Technical review of analytical work and reports generated by other qualified analysts.
• Court preparation and expert witness testimony.
• Communication with other laboratory analysts, laboratory director, and managers regarding casework and day-to-day laboratory operations.
• Communication with Evidence personnel to ensure proper chain of custody of evidence.
• Communication with Law Enforcement personnel of confidential information with regard to on-going criminal investigations.
• Communication with Attorneys and other judicial personnel of confidential information with regard to on-going criminal investigations and court proceedings.
• Communication with members of the public about educational opportunities, for example trainings and community outreach to groups such as Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners, school groups and classes, etc.
• Think critically and independently.
• Troubleshoot problems that arise during the scientific analysis process.
• Prioritize own casework.
• Participate in validation studies and /or research projects.
• Participate in the training of other analysts and/or law enforcement personnel.
• Maintain continuing education requirements to meet QAS standards.
• Adequately prepare for the effective presentation of findings in a court setting.

Requirements:

Experience, Knowledge, Skills & Education:

• Bachelor's Degree in a physical or natural science from an accredited college or university, to include course work to meet the FBI Quality Assurance Standards (QAS) requirements for a DNA analyst.
• Minimum 3-5 years’ experience in the Biology Unit of an accredited lab to include both serology and DNA analysis.
• Qualified as an expert in testimony in the area of Serology and/or DNA analysis.
• Perform job functions using paperless Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) and Quality Assurance/Quality control (QA/QC) platform.
• Operation and maintenance of scientific instrumentation to include: robotic platforms, qPCR, thermocyclers and capillary electrophoresis systems.
• Knowledge and use of specialized software platforms to include the following (or comparable): GeneMapper ID-X, STRmix, Combined DNA Data Index (CODIS) database and statistical components.
• Knowledge and use of general laboratory equipment to include: pipettes, balances, microscopes, alternate light sources, robotics, qPCR, and genetic analyzers.
• Must possess a valid driver license.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

• Work is primarily performed indoors with minimal exposure the elements.
• Work is performed at a fixed workstation.
• Possible exposure to blood-borne pathogens.
• Possible exposure to common chemicals used in a forensic laboratory.
• Ability to lift light to moderate weighing evidence packages from one location to another;
• Communication skills enough to hear and convey information to/from the public via telephone and in person;
• Operate standard office equipment requiring continuous or repetitive hand/arm movements;
• Vision enough to interpret computer screens and documents to assist the public and complete work assignments; specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus;
• Manual dexterity enough to accurately input, retrieve and verify work assignments; employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel and reach with hands and arms;
• Extensive work is performed on a computer with repetitive data entry and 10-key calculations; work is primarily performed at a desk.

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