Clinical Lab Scientist

About the Role

The UCSF-ITL is a high complexity clinical laboratory that performs tests and provides services supporting solid organ and hematopoietic stem cell transplant programs. The laboratory is CLIA certified, licensed by California and New York, and certified by CMS as a free-standing-histocompatibility laboratory. It serves as a core laboratory for the NIH Immune Tolerance Network and supports national clinical trials.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform laboratory functions supporting solid organ and blood & marrow transplant programs.
• On-call responsibilities for deceased donor transplant programs.
• Perform infectious disease testing.
• Data entry of patient and sample information into various systems.
• Prepare cell subsets.
• Isolate DNA.
• HLA type by various methods.
• Crossmatch by flow cytometry method.
• Test and identify HLA antibodies.
• Chimerism monitoring and other HLA-related tests.
• Assist in managing samples (store, retrieve, and aliquot).
• Perform quality control and routine maintenance of laboratory equipment.
• Analyze and report laboratory data.
• Order supplies, repairs, and other services.
• Answer phones and perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Ability to perform on-call duties, reporting to the laboratory within an hour of notice.
• Ability to work variable shifts including weekends, nights, and early mornings.
• Ability to process multiple samples accurately without switches.
• Ability to work with personal computers.
• Effective team member.
• Proven record of reliability and ability to multi-task.
• Ability to work independently with minimum supervision.
• Proficient in communication and interpersonal skills (verbal and written).
• Tidy and orderly work habits.

Qualifications

• Graduation from college with a major in an appropriate scientific field.
• Knowledge and abilities essential for successful performance of assigned duties.
• Relevant laboratory experience and/or a degree in life science or related course.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advance degree (Masters or doctorate) in a relevant field (e.g., immunology, blood banking, biochemistry).
• Experience with QC/QA/QS in a clinical laboratory setting.
• Working knowledge of antigens and genetics of the HLA system and ability to interpret results correctly.

Required Certification

• Current California Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) Generalist or Clinical Histocompatibility Scientist license.