DNA VALIDATION SPECIALIST 22145
(Competitive)
The work involves responsibility for the validation and implementation of new biological technologies, including body fluid identification and forensic DNA analysis. The work involves researching, planning and performing analyses, interpreting results, writing protocols and training staff as it relates to validation and new test methods. An employee in this class is responsible for supervising, training and performing work varying in complexity and responsibility in the areas of body fluid identification and forensic DNA analysis. General supervision is received from the Senior DNA Scientist, with some leeway allowed for independent judgment. Does related work as required.
Validates new biological technology methods in accordance with forensic accreditation standards, and writes protocols for the newly developed methods.
Trains staff in new and existing testing methods.
Evaluates and recommends modifications of existing testing procedures.
Performs and ensures routine preventative maintenance and calibration of laboratory equipment and analytical instruments.
Prepares and is responsible for quality assurance of reagents and test kits.
Participates in the quality control program within the laboratory and makes recommendations essential to maintaining laboratory standards and quality control procedures.
Performs scientific analysis of evidentiary materials such as hairs, body fluids and other biological evidence, as well as other types of forensic evidence analyses/comparisons, to include qualitative and physical analyses involving chemical and microscopic comparisons, electrophoresis, capillary electrophoresis, PCR, computer and statistical analysis and related techniques.
Performs quality control and quality audit related tasks, including internal and external proficiency tests and assists in the review and preparation of proficiency tests.
Engages in technical and peer review of analyses.
Researches technical journals, textbooks, chemical manuals and other source materials to determine the best methods of performing analytical testing and to remain abreast of scientific trends.
Trains less experience personnel.
Implements and monitors laboratory health and safety policies and procedures.
Appears in court litigation as an expert witness.
Attends scientific meetings and seminars, when available, in order to foster and increase professional development.
Participates in public health preparedness activities as trained and assigned.
Thorough knowledge of the theory, procedures and techniques necessary to produce reliable results and conclusions relative to scientific research and specific to the areas of forensic science, including DNA analysis.
Thorough knowledge of accreditation requirements regarding validation of forensic DNA technologies, including the FBI Quality Assurance Standards for Forensic DNA Testing Laboratories.
Thorough knowledge of accreditation requirements relative to training forensic biologists.
Thorough knowledge of the principles, practices, instruments and statistical methods used in serology and forensic DNA analysis as applied to the collection and analysis of criminal evidence.
Thorough knowledge of modern laboratory techniques, procedures, instrumentation and safety precautions used in the field of forensic DNA analysis.
Ability to interpret laboratory analysis techniques, procedures and theories in a clear and concise manner so that the layperson may understand the significance of the results obtained utilizing these procedures.
Ability to record, analyze and present data with scientific accuracy and thoroughness.
Graduation from a regionally accredited college or university or one accredited by the New York State Board of Regents to grant degrees with a Master's Degree or higher in a natural science, forensic science, criminalistics or a closely related field which must have included or was supplemented by a minimum of twelve (12) semester credit hours covering the following subject areas: *biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology and statistics/ population genetics, with at least three (3) of the twelve (12) credit hours being a graduate-level course, and five (5) years of work experience, or its part-time equivalent, in a forensic laboratory performing work equivalent to a Forensic Scientist (Biology).
*Biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology and statistics/population genetics must be the primary component of the classes or courses. Coursework completed with titles other than those listed may demonstrate compliance through submission of a student transcript, letter from a university professor verifying course content or a course syllabus.
NOTE: Education may be substituted for experience as follows: A Doctorate degree (PhD.) in a natural science, forensic science criminalistics or a closely related field may be substituted for two (2) years of the required work experience.
BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION:
Applicants will be required to undergo a State and national criminal history background investigation which will include a fingerprint check to determine suitability for appointment. Failure to meet the standards for the background investigation may result in disqualification.
10/2016 Date of Original Composition