Who We Are:

As the only independent and physician-led faculty practice plan of the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, University Clinical Health (UCH) offers best-in-class clinical care through a network of 175+ providers across 19 specialties to meet the healthcare needs of the Mid-South community. UCH is a not-for-profit, non-tax-supported group practice and is here to serve the community while providing medical excellence to our patients.

Position Summary:

• 
  The Molecular Lab Scientist is responsible for performing different aspects of molecular biological research and development activities and testing in research and clinical molecular laboratory environment. This includes collecting and/or receiving patient specimens, and research materials, including tissues, DNA/RNA, body fluids, tissue cassettes, and histology slides. Operation of sophisticated equipment, liquid handlers, and instruments in a CLIA environment that is required to render the results/data. This individual will evaluate and introduce new materials, methods, and equipment to help determine the feasibility and/or adaptability for research and clinical molecular studies. The Scientist may assist the laboratory team in the development of new technologies and participate in documenting and implementing Quality Assurance (QA)/ Quality Control (QC)/Quality Inventory (QI) procedures.
• Primary duties also include the ability review complex scientific literature, collaboration with wide range of stakeholders to develop to develop ideas and to create communication materials and presentation to the level of target audience.

Key Results Areas (KRAs):

• 
  Performs high-throughput quality control testing, liquid handling, and participation in biobanking in the molecular laboratory.
• Prepares DNA/ RNA libraries for Next-Generation Sequencing, qPCR and enters data into the laboratory information management system and manages Laboratory project /studies in LIMS.
• Manages resources such as productivity, supplies, instruments and equipment
• Plans work and completes job responsibilities in an efficient and productive manner.
• Performs accurate and appropriate testing of specimens received in the clinical laboratory, according to established standard operating procedures and laboratory protocols.
• Reports test results in a timely manner according to established standard operating procedures and laboratory protocols.
• Understands, applies, and supports departmental/hospital policies, procedures, and standards.
• Attends departmental meetings, training sessions and in-services offered to improve job performance and expand knowledge.
• Other duties as assigned.

Core Competencies

• 
  Molecular biology and basic laboratory skills with ability to independently conduct experiments.
• Demonstrated competency in routine clinical laboratory testing in assigned laboratory areas.
• Knowledge of laboratory information systems, data collection and entry.
• Ability to organize tasks and projects and to work without close supervision to complete tasks. Excellent interpersonal/human relation skills.
• Ability to travel when necessary
• Committed to supporting UCH’s standard to medical excellence

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Biochemistry, Biological Sciences, advance degree such as Master’s or PhD preferred.
• Four (4) years of relevant research and or clinical laboratory experience; OR Master’s Degree in lieu of experience.

Physical Demands & Environmental Conditions:

• This position operates in both a research and clinical lab environment
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit, stand, bend and walk. The employee must be capable of occasionally lifting and/or moving up to 25 pounds where applicable

Effective November 1, 2021, UCH requires all employees to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 (or have an approved medical or religious exemption from UCH). Please note that a job offer is contingent on submitting proof of COVID-19 vaccination or UCH approval of a medical or religious exemption request. Employees with approved exemptions will be required to undergo weekly COVID-19 testing at an assigned UCH testing location and time.

EOE-University Clinical Health provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. University Clinical Health is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor – priority referral Protected Veterans requested.