Job Description

Biologist - DNA

RECRUITMENT ONLY

PURPOSE: Under supervision, performs routine processing of forensic samples and contribute technical information regarding implementation and optimization of a vendor developed system for mitochondrial DNA typing by base composition derived from mass spectrometry data. 

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: 

• Receive and account for boxes of evidence and related materials from the In-Processing Group. Use the current database network for evidence inventory, tracking, and flow. Visually inspect and process evidence and related materials for mt-DNA and/or nuclear DNA as appropriate. Isolate and collect materials for analysis from appropriate areas of various evidentiary materials. Maintain proper chain of custody of all forensic material under examination.

• Make initial determination of the types of samples suitable for analysis and select appropriate protocols for conducting the examinations of material. Prepare samples for instrumental analysis; and associate samples with other existing submissions (as appropriate). Conduct examinations using standard PCR/STR/Y-STR or mtDNA methods. Validation and troubleshooting of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and electro-spray ionization time-of-flight (ESI-TOF) mass spectrometry systems. Design and optimization of additional mitochondrial DNA assays as appropriate.

• Document laboratory procedures performed. Provide all generated profiles or sequences in a format necessary for inclusion, storage, and searching of the appropriate DNA databases. Provide routine, detailed updates on project status.

• Follow all QA/QC procedures, protocols and adhere to FBI Laboratory policies and procedures related to its accreditation and safety standards. Performs quality control, calibration, and maintenance of instrumentation used for forensic examinations and analysis.

REQUIREMENTS:

Bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry or related field of biological science from an accredited university/college and one year experience required. Prefer a minimum of six (6) months of forensic human DNA laboratory experience. For three of the five (5) years immediately prior to applying for the specific contract position, the individual must have 1) resided in the United States; 2) worked for the United States overseas in a Federal or military capability; or 3) be a dependent of a Federal or military employee serving overseas. These individuals must, however, be United States citizens or Permanent Resident Aliens. Must have experience in mass-spectrometry instrumentation. Must have experience in design and optimization of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays. Must have experience in written and oral administrative skills. Basic knowledge of general procedures used to collect and process evidence required. Must have knowledge of the principles, theories, concepts, and practices of biological sciences and chemistry. Must have knowledge of the principles, theories, concepts, and practices of mass spectrometry and molecular biology. Must have knowledge and experience in optimization of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) parameters. Knowledge and still in the use of laboratory equipment and techniques required. Must have basic knowledge of forensic laboratory procedures. Skill in oral and written communications required. Basic knowledge of quality control procedures and documentation required. Specialized Requirements: (1) Must successfully complete and pass the FBI Laboratory/TEDAC training requirements. ( 2) Must successfully complete an FBI competency test within the time period as set forth by the FBI Laboratory/TEDAC program. At a minimum, the competency test will include: Examination of sufficient unknown samples to cover the anticipated spectrum of job duties and evaluation of his/her ability to perform suitable testing methods; and a written or oral examination to assess his/her knowledge of the discipline, category of testing, or task being performed. An active or reinstatable TOP SECRET (TS) security clearance is required for this position.