PURPOSE

Function as a technical lead for the flow cytometry area, working with technologists to ensure that laboratory results are generated correctly and reported accurately in a timely manner, equipment is maintained and the inventory is managed. Investigate, communicate and resolve operational and technical issues with technologists and Laboratory Management. Assist with planning the daily, weekly and monthly workload for the department as required. Assist Laboratory Management with the development of new methods, conduct of technology transfers and training.

RESPONSIBILITIES

•       Act as the primary technical lead for the flow cytometry area, providing oversight and technical support to the laboratory.

•       Serve as the primary resource for the flow cytometry area to resolve testing issues and instrument performance/maintenance concerns. Discuss issues with vendors and/or assist in troubleshooting to obtain solutions.

•       Plan and perform the hands-on training of new staff/existing staff within the technical group in proper laboratory techniques for existing and new methods. Evaluate performance of staff for adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs) and efficient workflow.

•       Assist with assigning the daily, weekly and monthly workload of the flow cytometry area in regards to quality, and timeliness.

•       Maintain quality control of laboratory testing to ensure accurate and timely lab reporting. Document corrective and preventative actions taken using good documentation practices. Ensure that new lots of quality control/reagent are validated in a timely manner with collaboration and communication with assisting departments if appropriate.

•       Where appropriate perform moderate/highly complex analysis of patient specimens. When appropriate evaluate validity of specimen results as per SOP guidelines. Document all corrective actions taken.

•       Assist management in establishing new methodologies and/or work with validation scientists in the transfer of new assays, ensuring appropriate training is provided to technologists. Assist in completion of validations/technology transfers collaborating with other departments to completion. Participate in the appraisal and selection process for new instrumentation.

•       Assist management with implementing SOPs for laboratory testing and safety procedures. Implement changes in laboratory notifying all employees of necessary changes. Notify management when updates to department SOP manuals are needed to reflect procedural changes.

•       Collaborate with Global Cytometry in the implementation of new procedures and procedural updates and serve as member of the Cytometry Best Practices team.

•       Follow safety procedures as per laboratory SOPs.

•       Collaborate with Project Manager with client requests and concerns. Triage these requests where appropriate. Notify management of any delays in testing and any related factors.

•       Identify appropriate vendors and orders laboratory supplies as directed by management in order to maintain consistent workflow.

•       Participate in continuing education through self-study, attending off-site lectures and preparing programs to share with coworkers.

•       All responsibilities are essential job functions unless noted as nonessential (N).

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

•       A deep understanding of equipment, software and processes of flow cytometry. Principles and theoretical analysis of samples must be understood and transferable to other staff.

•       Trouble shoot/assess acceptability of QC/patient results. Liaise with the Biomarkers & Translational Sciences and Global Cytometry departments as required to ensure smooth technology transfer of testing and procedures to include QC practices. Keep records of staff training and assess requirements for cross training.

•       Adhere to all Health and Safety rules and regulations. Assist management with ensuring team adherence.

•       Good oral communication skills for supervision, coaching and training.

•       Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, managers and clients. Must have good working relationships with vendors/engineers.

•       Knowledge and use of statistical analysis.

MINIMUM REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

•       Bachelor's degree in a health sciences field and a minimum of 5 years relevant practical experience including or equivalent combination of education, training and experience in all aspects of flow cytometry and related cell analysis techniques.

•       Applicable certifications and licenses as required by country, state, and/or other regulatory bodies.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

•       Available full time to perform job related duties

•       Extensive use of telephone and face-to-face communication requiring accurate perception of speech

•       Extensive use of keyboard requiring repetitive motion of fingers

•       Regular sitting for extended periods of time

•       Work is performed in a laboratory environment, full manual dexterity and visual acuity required

•       May be exposed to potential physical harm from hazardous chemicals, infectious diseases, blood-borne pathogens, toxic materials, toxic gases, electrical hazards, dangerous tools and equipment

•       Occasional travel

The above information on this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.