Clinical Laboratory Scientist I

About Karius

Karius is a venture-backed life science startup that is transforming the way pathogens and other microbes are observed throughout the body. By unlocking the information present in microbial cell-free DNA, we're helping doctors quickly solve their most challenging cases, providing industry partners with access to the microbial landscape to accelerate biomarker discovery and clinical trials, and discover novel microbes, to ultimately reduce patient suffering worldwide.

Position Summary

The Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) I is an enthusiastic, self-motivated person with great communication skills. This individual performs high complexity laboratory testing on patient specimens, performs quality control and quality assurance procedures, interprets and reports test results under the direction of the Laboratory Director. The CLS I candidate must demonstrate a high level of individual responsibility and accountability and possess the ability to perform to the requirements listed below. The CLS I must also be comfortable in a rapidly evolving biotech start-up environment. Shift: Tuesday to Saturday, 7:00 am to 3:30 pm.

Why Should You Join Us?

Karius aims to conquer infectious diseases through innovations around genomic sequencing and machine learning. The company’s platform is already delivering unprecedented insights into the microbial landscape, providing clinicians with a comprehensive test capable of identifying more than a thousand pathogens directly from blood, and helping industry accelerate the development of therapeutic solutions. The Karius test we provide today is one of the most advanced solutions available to physicians who aim to deliver better care to many otherwise ineffectively treated patients. Our test is the result of some incredible work done by our scientists, statisticians, engineers, and physicians, all driven by the same mission. You, as part of the Karius team, will be able to see how directly your work has a life-changing impact on people, and at scale. 

Reports to:   Senior Manager, Clinical Laboratory Operations

Location:  Redwood City, CA  

Primary Responsibilities

• Perform routine molecular test procedures independently in an assigned area such as specimen processing, nucleic acid extraction, quantitative analysis, gel electrophoresis, PCR, library construction, sequencing and data analysis according to the laboratory’s standard operating procedures.

• Perform and document routine preventive maintenance.

• Perform and document reagent qualification according to approved protocols or SOPs.

• Operate high-throughput integrated automation workstations.  Use in-house LIMS and other infrastructure software during performance of job duties.

• Ability to identify and resolve basic technical problems and ensure that corrective actions are taken whenever test systems deviate from the laboratory established performance specifications.

• Maintain accurate records of work performed, perform or monitor instrument calibration and maintenance records, and generate initial reports and analysis for review as required.

• Ensure that patient test results are not reported until all corrective actions have been taken and the test system is properly functioning.

• Ability to revise lab SOPs under the direction of a supervisor.

• Ability to identify areas for process improvement and capacity to directly support related efforts.

• Perform other responsibilities as authorized by the laboratory director and require a degree of skill commensurate with the individual’s education, training or experience and technical abilities. 

What’s Fun About the Job?

Karius is operating at the edge of what is now known to be possible in infectious disease diagnostics. With that, comes a wave of new and incredible challenges and opportunities. To deliver on that value, you will be tapping into some of the most advanced technologies, architecting and innovating where the current solutions simply don't suffice. You will get to see how much your work really matters.

Travel:   No travel  

Physical Requirements

• Hours and days may vary depending on operational needs.

• Standing or sitting for long periods of time may be necessary.

• May be exposed to hazardous materials, blood specimens and instruments while moving parts, heating or freezing elements, and high speed centrifugation. 

• Repetitive manual pipetting may be necessary.

• Some lifting (up to 25 pounds) may be necessary.

Position Requirements

• Current California Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) license or California limited license as Clinical • Chemist Scientist or Clinical Microbiologist Scientist. ASCP certification preferred.

• BS in Medical Technology, Biology, Chemistry, or related sciences. Individuals educated in a college or university located outside the US or a US territory requires a credential equivalency evaluation by an approved agency. 

• 0-2 years of experience post-licensure with particular emphasis performing molecular test procedures. • Molecular biology experience preferred; Additional areas of expertise in Clinical Chemistry and Microbiology considered.

• Working knowledge of relevant laboratory regulations, and experience with software and automation systems. 

• Strong contributor to the operation of the laboratory and support of the team through reliable performance, effective communication, strong work ethic, and patient mindedness.

Personal Qualifications

Ability to proactively communicate in a consistent, clear and honest manner.

Flexible and adaptive in a frequently changing environment.

Disclaimer

The above job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and skills required. Responsibilities and duties may change or be adjusted to meet the needs of the company, and additional duties may be assigned as necessary. The job description is subject to change at any time at the discretion of Karius.

Equal Opportunity Employer

At Karius, we value a diverse and inclusive workplace and provide equal employment opportunities for all applicants and employees and are committed to honor and invest in the full diversity of people, in our hiring, recruiting and development of employees across the Company.  All qualified applicants for employment are encouraged to apply and will be considered without regard to an individual’s race, color, sex, gender identity and gender expression (including transgender individuals who are transitioning, have transitioned, or are perceived to be transitioning to the gender with which they identify), religion, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, medical condition, family care status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local laws. If you are unable to submit your application due to a disability, please contact us at [email protected] and we will accommodate qualified individuals with disabilities.