About the role

Stealth startup in reproductive health is seeking a Molecular Laboratory Technologist to build and manage STR-based DNA identity testing workflows for sperm genetic testing. The role involves owning the full sample processing lifecycle, from extraction to allele calling, while establishing lab SOPs and accreditation standards.

Skills

Molecular biology DNA extraction PCR STR profiling Capillary electrophoresis Fragment analysis Applied Biosystems 3500 LIMS SOP development Method validation Chain of custody HIPAA compliance Good documentation practice Genomic DNA normalization Multiplex STR amplification

Full job details

Position Overview

We are a stealth startup in the reproductive health space, now looking at the genetic testing of sperm.

As a Molecular Laboratory Technologist, you'll run STR-based DNA identity testing on samples. The STR profiles you generate will confirm identity, verify chain of custody, and keep every stored sample traceable. You'll own the full workflow on our capillary electrophoresis platform, from extraction through allele calling, review, and records. You'll also set up instruments, validate methods, and help write the SOPs that define how our lab runs.

If you want real ownership and a direct hand in building something new in reproductive health, we'd love to meet you.

Core Responsibilities

Stand up an STR-based DNA identity testing workflow including:
- Instrument installation and testing
- Extract, quantify, and normalize genomic DNA using validated methods.
- Set up multiplex STR amplification using commercial kits
- Run fragment analysis on the Applied Biosystems 3500
Support accreditation through SOP creation and maintenance, proficiency testing, document control, method validation, and verification studies.
Accession donor samples (buccal swab) with full chain-of-custody documentation and unique identifiers.
Record all work in our custom built LIMS platform following good documentation practice.
Protect donor confidentiality and handle identifiable information in line with HIPAA and company privacy policies.
Help design laboratory operations for processing donor samples from end to end.
Support general andrology and cryobank lab tasks as cross-training allows.

Must-Haves Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in molecular biology, biology, biochemistry, forensic science, medical laboratory science, or a related life science.
1–2+ years of hands-on molecular lab experience, including PCR and DNA extraction.
Experience with capillary electrophoresis and fragment analysis, ideally STR profiling.
Strong documentation habits and comfort working under written SOPs in a regulated environment.
Meticulous attention to detail, sample handling discipline, and contamination control.

Nice-to-Haves

Direct experience with the ABI 3500 Fragment Analyzer
Background in a forensic DNA, paternity/relationship testing, cell line authentication, or clinical molecular lab.
Familiarity with 21 CFR Part 1271 (HCT/Ps), good tissue practice, or tissue bank operations.
ASCP certification (MB or MLS) or equivalent.
Experience with method validation, LIMS, and audit preparation.