Medical Laboratory Technologist_Molecular Diagnostics (Genetics & Genomics)

To perform routine clinical molecular diagnostic testing and related laboratory activities to deliver high-quality, accurate and timely diagnostic services for patient care. The incumbent will support the day-to-day operations of a clinical molecular diagnostics laboratory, participate in quality and continuous improvement initiatives, and have opportunities to gain exposure to emerging genetic and genomic testing technologies within a CAP-accredited clinical laboratory.

Job Responsibilities

• Receive, accession and assess clinical specimens for suitability for molecular diagnostic testing according to established laboratory criteria.
• Perform routine molecular diagnostic procedures, including but not limited to:
• Nucleic acid extraction and quantification
• PCR and real-time PCR assays
• Sanger sequencing
• NGS library preparation and sequencing workflows
• Other molecular diagnostic techniques as required by the laboratory
• Operate the Laboratory Information System (LIS) for test registration, result entry, result verification and result enquiry.
• Perform laboratory testing in accordance with approved SOPs, quality standards and turnaround-time requirements.
• Review assay quality metrics and quality control results and escalate test failures, discrepancies or non-conformities to senior staff where appropriate.
• Ensure critical and urgent test results are communicated according to laboratory policies.
• Resolve routine enquiries from clinicians, healthcare professionals and other stakeholders.
• Perform routine preventive maintenance and basic troubleshooting of molecular diagnostic instruments and equipment.
• Maintain accurate and complete laboratory records, worksheets and documentation in compliance with accreditation requirements.
• Assist in inventory management, stock monitoring and procurement of laboratory consumables and reagents.
• Participate in quality assurance activities, proficiency testing programmes and continuous quality improvement initiatives.
• Assist with validation and implementation activities for new reagents, equipment and assays when required.
• Train and guide trainees, students and newly appointed staff in routine laboratory procedures.
• Report adverse incidents, safety concerns and quality events to supervisors promptly.
• Assist with internal audits and accreditation activities.
• Ensure compliance with CAP, ISO15189, laboratory safety policies and regulatory requirements.
• Uphold NUHS Core Values and comply with departmental workplace practices.
• Assist with verification, validation and performance evaluation studies for new molecular diagnostic assays.
• Assist in drafting, reviewing and updating SOPs, work instructions and laboratory forms.
• Participate in department projects related to workflow optimisation, quality improvement and service enhancement.
• Support implementation of new molecular and genomic testing services as required.
• Assist with administrative tasks related to laboratory operations.
• Cover duties of Senior Medical Technologist when required.
  
  

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science (BSc) or equivalent in Medical Laboratory Science, Biomedical Science, Molecular Biology, Genetics, Life Sciences or related disciplines.
• Preferably 1-2 years of experience in a clinical laboratory setting.
• Experience in molecular diagnostic testing is preferred.
• Exposure to PCR, real-time PCR, Sanger sequencing and/or NGS workflows would be advantageous.
• Good understanding of molecular biology principles and molecular diagnostic techniques.
• Good laboratory skills and ability to follow established protocols accurately.
• Familiarity with Laboratory Information Systems and laboratory quality management systems.
• Basic knowledge of genetic and genomic testing workflows would be advantageous.
• Meticulous with strong attention to detail.
• Good analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to multitask and prioritise workload effectively.
• Proactive with good planning and organisational skills.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Service-oriented and customer-focused.
• Good initiative and positive attitude.
• Able to work independently and as part of a team.