Job Summary:

The Geneticist will research and study the inheritance of traits at the molecular, organism or population level and may evaluate or treat patients with genetic disorders.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• May supervise or direct the work of other geneticists, biologists, technicians, or biometricians working on genetics research projects.
• May instruct medical students, graduate students, or others in methods or procedures for diagnosis and management of genetic disorders.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Plans or conducts basic genomic and biological research related to areas such as regulation of gene expression, protein interactions, metabolic networks, and nucleic acid or protein complexes. Reviews, approves, or interprets genetic laboratory results. Maintains laboratory notebooks that record research methods, procedures, and results.
• Searches scientific literature to select and modify methods and procedures most appropriate for genetic research goals. Evaluates genetic data by performing appropriate mathematical or statistical calculations and analyses. Writes grants and papers or attends fundraising events to seek research funds.
• Extracts deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) or performs diagnostic tests involving processes such as gel electrophoresis, Southern blot analysis, and polymerase chain reaction analysis.
• Prepares results of experimental findings for presentation at professional conferences or in scientific journals.
• Analyzes determinants responsible for specific inherited traits and devises methods for altering traits or producing new traits. Designs sampling plans or coordinates the field collection of samples such as tissue specimens. Designs and maintains genetics computer databases.
• Verifies that cytogenetic, molecular genetic, and related equipment and instrumentation is maintained in working condition to ensure accuracy and quality of experimental results. Maintains laboratory safety programs and trains staff in laboratory safety techniques. Develops protocols to improve existing genetic techniques or to incorporate new diagnostic procedures.
• Confers with information technology specialists to develop computer applications for genetic data analysis.
• Conducts family medical studies to evaluate the genetic basis for traits or diseases.
• Plans curatorial programs for species collections that include acquisition, distribution, maintenance, or regeneration.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Knowledge of medical terminology and procedures generally obtained from the completion of medical school.
• Knowledge of genetics and data collection techniques.
• Possession of a strong patient focus with the ability to communicate effectively in lay terms.
• Ability to instruct and supervise junior staff.

Education and Experience:

• A Medical Doctorate and background in human/medical genetics required.

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• May require prolonged periods of standing or walking.
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.