The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) seeks an experienced Microbiologist to join the BioWatch Laboratory within the Virology Division. This position is located at the State Public Health Laboratory (MA SPHL). The Microbiologist performs molecular microbiological tests to identify and characterize pathogenic agents of both clinical and public health importance.

Please note: This position is expected to report to the office five (5) days per week.

Learn more about what it’s like to work as a DPH Laboratory Professional

Duties and Responsibilities (these duties are a general summary and not all inclusive):

• Perform sample accessioning, determination of accept/reject criteria, and initiate sample analysis according to programmatic and institutional requirements while maintaining chain-of-custody for the samples.

• Perform PCR-based molecular assays to detect the presence of infectious biological agents and other agents of public health concern on human, animal, food, or environmental samples; this includes the application of the underlying concepts of performing real-time PCR determining cutoff thresholds and critically evaluate technical issues.

• Prepare results generated for subsequent secondary review and release following verification by a second reviewer.

• Perform testing and characterization of microbial pathogens using traditional and/or advanced molecular Methods.

• Perform PCR-based molecular assays to detect the presence of infectious biological agents and other agents of public health concern on human, animal, food, or environmental samples; this includes the application of the underlying concepts of performing real-time PCR determining cutoff thresholds and critically evaluate technical issues.

• Prepare results generated for subsequent secondary review and release following verification by a second reviewer.

• Follow the local and federal quality management program requirements to ensure that all certification and accreditation requirements, including training and competency, are met.

• Follow the laboratory’s established policies and procedures whenever test systems are not within the laboratory’s defined acceptable levels of performance.

• Communicate with field collection team or other submitters according to procedures regarding sample collection, packaging, shipping, and transportation of specimens transported to the laboratory.

• Perform quality control activities including verification or validation, routine quality control, and proficiency testing, as assigned, including performing reagent validation testing and preparation of documentation for supervisor review.

• Maintain proficiency in aseptic and molecular diagnostics methods to ensure laboratory areas and reagents are contamination-free.

• Perform routine laboratory and field collection equipment cleaning and maintenance; report equipment problems according to procedures in a timely fashion.

• Comply with agency policy regarding safety, security, and protection in the working environment in accordance with the laboratory’s procedures and policies for biological, chemical, and radiologic agents within either biosafety level 2 or biosafety level 3 environments; observes safety precautions and practices and participates in disposal of hazardous waste.

• Perform all laboratory work (e.g., testing procedures, safety protocols, quality assurance protocols) according to written standard operating procedures.

• Follow the local and federal quality management program requirements to ensure that all certification and accreditation requirements, including training and competency, are met; follow strict protocols for accurate and complete entering and reporting of results within the laboratory information management system(s) and maintains documentation and records of testing and reporting according to federal program guidelines.

• Once trained and competent, perform second reviewer duties, compliant with regulatory standards, to verify and release test results for all tests for which they employee has been deemed competent.The employee will be eligible to perform verify/release duties for all analysts regardless of classification level provided the employee is competent to perform the verify/release on the specific test.

• Ensure adequate laboratory staff coverage for 24/7/365 operations including participation in on-call rotation.

• Provide laboratory support for field responses and investigations as assigned by the supervisor and may participate and respond to emergency events or surge testing capacity as required.

• Assist in maintenance of proper supply levels through notification of a microbiologist of a higher grade when supplies or working stocks reach established order threshold limits.

• Perform other duties as determined by the Division Director/management in response to program needs to include but not limited to participation/contribution to LIMS implementation and processes associated with building renovation.

Required Qualifications:

• Knowledge of the concepts and theories of microbiology, immunology, and molecular biology.

• Knowledge of basic microbiological, immunological, and molecular biology techniques.These include knowledge of basic microbial culture techniques, biochemical tests, serology, sequencing, and nucleic acid-based detection assays.

• Knowledge of the quality assurance practices (e.g., equipment maintenance, proficiency testing, method validation, staff competency, following standard operating procedures) specific to microbiology, immunological, and molecular biology test methods in a diagnostic setting.

• Ability to perform calculations, measurements and unit conversion calculations.

• Knowledge of the principles and policies governing professional ethics and rules of conduct.

• Ability to effectively and professionally communicate orally and in writing and prepare concise technical reports.

• Ability to follow work instructions and either work independently or in a team environment.

• Knowledge of laboratory certifications and accreditations to ensure adherence to certification and accreditation requirements to meet regulatory requirements.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Knowledge of the analysis protocol and quality assurance in a laboratory.

• Ability to explain, understand and follow the SOP, testing and regulatory guidelines, policies, laws, rules and regulations pertaining to the laboratory operations.

• Ability to explain the provisions of the laws, rules and regulations governing a microbiology laboratory.

• Ability to explain the procedures, guidelines, policies governing assigned unit activities.

• Ability to use a computer to conduct research, manage databases, and produce written documents.

• Ability to coordinate assignments for microbiological sample storage, handling, and specimen retention, and packaging and shipping of infectious substances.

• Ability to give oral and written instructions in a precise and understandable manner.

• Ability to make effective oral presentations.

• Ability to read and interpret technical manuals, journal articles, and other formal scientific materials.

Special Requirements:

• Willingness to work under conditions of potential exposure to infectious agents.

• Willingness to sign a confidentiality statement and Non-Disclosure Agreement upon hire.

• This position will require work in the BSL-3 laboratory. In the context of work in a BSL-3 environment the successful candidate must understand the following:

  • All Select Agent registered, non-Tier 1 Staff will undergo a security risk assessment (SRA), which includes signing a confidentiality statement, and renewal every three years.

  • Working conditions include potential exposure to infectious agents.

  • All Select Agent registered, non-Tier 1 designated staff who may be exposed to Biological Select Agents and Toxins (BSAT) must complete OSHA Respirator Medical Evaluation Questionnaire (29 CFR 1910.134 Appendix C), be evaluated and determined able to wear a respirator before working in any HSLI laboratory (Tier 1, non Tier1, and non SAT) that requires a respirator.

  • Failure to pass the SRA required for access to BSAT may result in being laid off if no other resolution is reached.

• As part of the pre-hire process, you will be required to submit transcript(s) for review for the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) verification process. If selected as the preferred candidate, you will be required to submit an official transcript from each accredited academic institution to verify the above. Please note that we will be unable to move forward with your application for this position if you do not meet CLIA qualifications.

Working Conditions:

• Based on assignment, participates in standby/on call rotation as required for response to emergent situations of public health importance.

About the Bureau of Infectious Disease and Laboratory Sciences (BIDLS):

The DPH Bureau of Infectious Disease and Laboratory Sciences (BIDLS), predominantly located in Jamaica Plain, provides public health response to infectious disease. These services include programmatic and epidemiologic response, as well as laboratory testing through the State Public Health Laboratory (SPHL).

Infectious disease response services address concerns of the general public as well as those disproportionately affected by infectious disease through a variety of risk factors. BIDLS administers ongoing disease reporting for over 90 reportable diseases in the state. Disease reporting review and follow-up with clinical providers and local boards of health is a central function of the bureau. Surveillance activity is complemented by an extensive contracted service system. These services are funded through state and federal resources and include prevention education, community outreach screening for infectious disease, immunization services, health service navigation, medical case management, insurance enrollment, housing assistance, and referral and linkage to infectious disease treatment.

The SPHL provides scientific expertise and capacity to identify infectious agents, chemical agents, and other toxins that cause human disease.The SPHL is an active partner in joint activities with other bureaus/agencies such as environmental health, food and drug, agriculture, disease prevention and health promotion programs, and public safety.The SPHL is a reference laboratory of the national Laboratory Response Network (LRN) and is a U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Select Agent laboratory. SPHL staff work closely with laboratory and disease prevention programs at the CDC, and partners with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

BIDLS Vision:  Optimize the health of all people in Massachusetts and implement an equitable and just public health response by combatting infections and other public health threats.

BIDLS Mission: Use testing, analytical, and direct service capacities, grounded in data-, science-, and equity-driven public health principles, to share accurate information, provide timely guidance, and respond to infections and other public health threats, leveraging innovation and partnerships at the individual, family, community, and population levels.

DPH Mission and Vision:

The mission of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) is to promote and protect health and wellness and prevent injury and illness for all people, prioritizing racial equity in health by improving equitable access to quality public health and health care services and partnering with communities most impacted by health inequities and structural racism.

We envision a Commonwealth with an equitable and just public health system that supports optimal well-being for all people in Massachusetts, centering those with systemically and culturally oppressed identities and circumstances.

Pre-Hire Process:

A criminal background check will be completed on the recommended candidate as required by the regulations set forth by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services prior to the candidate being hired. For more information, please visit http://www.mass.gov/hhs/cori

Education, licensure and certifications will be verified in accordance with the Human Resources Division's Hiring Guidelines.

Education and license/certification information provided by the selected candidate(s) is subject to the Massachusetts Public Record Law and may be published on the Commonwealth's website.

ADA Reasonable Accommodation:

If you require a reasonable accommodation with the application/interview process, please contact us at: EOHHS Candidate ADA Requests

For questions regarding this requisition, please contact the Executive Office of Health and Human Services Human Resources at 1-800- 510-4122 Ext. 4

First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days.

Minimum Entrance Requirements:

Applicants must have (A) at least three (3) years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, professional or academic research experience in microbiology, molecular biology, or medical laboratory technology, or (B) any equivalent combination of the required experience and the substitutions below.

Based on assignment, applicants must meet related Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act (CLIA) requirements for High Complexity Testing.

Incumbents may be required to have a current and valid motor vehicle driver's license at a class level specific to assignment.

Substitutions:

I. A Bachelor's degree with a major in microbiology, molecular biology, biology, medical laboratory technology, or equivalent scientific field may be substituted for two (2) years of the required experience.

II. A Master's degree or higher with a major in microbiology, molecular biology, biology or equivalent scientific field may be substituted for the required experience.

Salary placement is determined by a combination of factors, including the candidate’s years of directly related experience and education, and alignment with our internal compensation structure as set forth by the Human Resources Division’s Hiring Guidelines. For all bargaining unit positions (non-management), compensation is subject to the salary provisions outlined in the applicable collective bargaining agreement and will apply to placement within the appropriate salary range.

Comprehensive Benefits

When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.

Want the specifics?Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!

An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.