Genetics Technologist I

Genetics Technologist I

CSI Site - Alpharetta, GA 30004

Overview

Level Entry Position Type Full Time Education Level 4 Year Degree Category Biotech

Description

About Us

CSI Laboratories, a Fulgent Genetics Company, is a nationally recognized cancer testing and diagnostics laboratory experienced in helping pathologists and oncologists diagnose and treat cancer patients.

Founded in 2011, our parent entity, Fulgent Genetics, has evolved into a premier full-service genomic testing company built around a foundational technology platform.

Through our diverse testing menu, Fulgent is focused on transforming patient care in oncology, anatomic pathology, infectious and rare diseases, and reproductive health. We believe that by providing a wide range of effective, flexible testing options in conjunction with best-in-class service and support, we can redefine the way medicine is managed for patients and clinicians alike.

Since integrating with our therapeutic development business, Fulgent is also developing drug candidates for treating a broad range of cancers using a novel nanoencapsulation and targeted therapy platform. By merging our fields of expertise, we aim to become a fully integrated precision medicine company.

Summary of Position

Under direct supervision, the Genetics Technologist I is responsible for efficient and accurate performance of cytogenetic and/or FISH (fluorescence in situ hybridization) laboratory testing in a clinical Cytogenetics/FISH laboratory, following established procedures and maintaining proper quality control. In this position, the technologist develops proficiency in cell culture, harvest, slide dropping, banding, microscope/automated imaging system analysis of chromosomes and interphase nuclei for FISH in the detection of abnormalities, and preparation of karyotypes. Adheres to laboratory policies for safety, conduct, and performance.

Key Job Elements

• Cell Culture: Initiates, maintains, and harvests cell cultures of human tissue for genetic testing.
• Charts/Records: Records pertinent laboratory data on the appropriate form or chart to ensure accurate and complete documentation of laboratory findings.
• Microscopy/Analysis: Analyzes selected banded metaphase spreads and/or interphase nuclei under the microscope or utilizing an automated imaging system to monitor for genetic abnormalities with 95% accuracy.
• Productivity: Keeps a daily work log and is working toward the industry standard of 4 full cases analyzed per day for karyotyping and/or 60 probes per day in FISH.
• Imaging: Uses specialized equipment for capture and enhancement of images utilizing optimum resolution.
• May participate in the development of SOPs including updates as required.
• Professional Development: Attends in-services, reads professional literature, and participates in educational programs and activities to remain abreast of developments in the field of cytogenetics. Participates in proficiency testing.
• Quality Control: Complies with quality control policies and procedures to ensure that all aspects of laboratory operation are performed in accordance with accepted standards and applicable laws for clinical laboratories.
• Reagents/Media: Prepares reagents, stains, and media in accordance with laboratory protocol.
• Safety: Practices universal precautions measures necessary for the handling of body fluids.
• Staining: Performs staining and/or probing procedures for routine and specialized analysis.
• Sterile Technique: Observes principles of sterile technique in carrying out daily responsibilities including the proper cleaning and sterilization of work surfaces, equipment, and instruments.
• Supplies: Assists in maintaining an adequate stock of commonly used supplies.
• Performs related responsibilities as required, including the training of residents/trainees if directed.

Qualifications

Knowledge/Experience

• Bachelor's degree in biology or related scientific field
• Must be ASCP certified in Cytogenetics
• Experience in laboratory sciences
• Laboratory personnel participating in licensure or certification maintenance programs must complete the number of continuing education hours prescribed by their licensing or certifying agency.
• Technical laboratory personnel whose certification has been grandfathered and does not require participation in a certification maintenance program must complete at least twelve hours of continuing education annually.

Environment

Fulgent Therapeutics LLC/CSI is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position. The term "qualified individual with a disability" means an individual with a disability who, with or without reasonable accommodation, can perform the essential functions of the position.

• Potential Exposure to toxic chemicals and the bio-hazards associated with handling blood, solid tissue, and body fluids.