Medical Laboratory Scientist - Quality Improvement

Job Description

Medical Laboratory Scientist - Quality Improvement The Public and Environmental Health teams are highly skilled in researching diseases, vectors, and environmental contaminants which are of public health importance. We have several high containment laboratories and specialised equipment that facilitate research in exotic, highly pathogenic or unknown viruses, bacterial and insect vectors of disease. The Medical Laboratory Scientist reports to the Senior Research Scientist leading the Quality Improvement Project within Public and Environmental Health. Key Responsibilities Assist in the development/enhancement of quality systems management, including sample and reagent inventories, to ensure compliance with a NATA (ISO17025 and ISO 15189) quality systems certified organisation. Assist in the development, validation, and implementation of new technologies and methodologies in the evolving field of microbial metagenomics as it applies to diagnostic and public health microbiology/virology. Perform clinical and reference testing and contribute to ensuring the effective and efficient development and provision of analytical testing services. Contribute to the development and delivery of methods for detection and epidemiological typing utilising a range of molecular and bioinformatics analysis tools on notifiable pathogens and other organisms of public health significance. Apply scientific knowledge and judgement in the analysis of samples and specimens leading to the delivery of state-wide testing services for public health microbiology/virology, reporting to a diverse client base. Perform duties as required for the daily operation of testing services in Public and Environmental Health, contributing as a staff member in a cooperative team, with effective communication within that team, to the PEH team leaders and clinical microbiologists, and with clients internal and external to the laboratory. Assist in the development and optimisation of scientific testing and quality assurance activities following well-established accredited protocols and standards, using Australian and International Standards where applicable, ensuring with supervision from senior staff that all relevant legislative, administrative, and professional standards and NATA/ISO accreditation/certification requirements are met. Key Competencies (Role Specific Criteria) A relevant tertiary degree or equivalent, and experience in clinical microbiology/virology. Demonstrated ability to contribute to a laboratory service that is compliant with NATA/NPAAC/ISO/IEC17025/15189 quality accreditation, standard methods, and relevant regulatory guidelines and professional standards. Knowledge and skills in the provision of contemporary public health microbiological/virological testing, particularly as this applies to molecular epidemiology including genomics for notifiable and emerging bacterial and viral pathogens. A high level of Microsoft skills, attention to detail, task-driven, and ability to work to deadlines. Practical experience and a high level of expertise in communication & data management within a clinical laboratory environment. Demonstrated skills for contributing to laboratory-specific documents including research reports, databases, emailing staff and clients, and working with LIMS. Relevant postgraduate qualifications in clinical microbiology/virology are highly desired. To apply for this exciting opportunity, submit your resume and a short statement (maximum one page) online today! Further Information We are committed to building inclusive cultures in the Queensland public sector that respect and promote human rights and diversity. Further info: Applications will remain current for a period of up to 12 months and may be considered for other vacancies which may include an alternative employment basis (temporary; full time or part time). #J-18808-Ljbffr