POSITION DESCRIPTION
The Assistant Director will closely work with the Directors of the molecular diagnostic laboratory to analyze, evaluate, interpret, and report molecular diagnostic test results for Constitutional Genomic or Oncology assays and participate in new and ongoing clinical assay development. This is an exciting opportunity for the right candidate to join a state-of-art clinical genomics laboratory and an expanding world-class next-generation genome center.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE (BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO):
Identify, annotate and investigate the clinical significance of genetic variants found in NGS-based molecular assays for rare undiagnosed genetic diseases or somatic variants from tumor sequencing.
Interpret clinical whole genome and transcriptome sequencing (WGS) tests and prepare and sign out reports.
Work closely with the Laboratory Director to develop and validate new molecular tests.
Assist in creation and dissemination of precision medicine knowledge of variant-disease associations in the context of disease, reasons for testing.
Participate in the continued integration of laboratory information system, various software/systems for gene, variant curation, interpretation and clinical reporting.
Other duties as assigned.
Required Skills Required Experience
REQUIREMENTS & QUALIFICATIONS
MD or PhD in biology, genetics, biochemistry, or a related field.
ABMGG Board certified (or eligible) in Clinical Molecular Genetics, or Laboratory Genetics and Genomics, or Molecular Genomic Pathology.
Experience in the performance, interpretation, and reporting of Next Generation Sequencing data such as WES and WGS.
Proven track record of hands-on experience in Next Generation Sequencing technologies.
New York State Certificate of Qualification or eligibility in genetic testing or Oncology Molecular and Cellular Tumor Markers.
Thrives in a fast-paced, rapidly changing, start-up like environment.
Experience with genetic variant classification as per ACMG and/or somatic variant classification as per AMP guidelines; Knowledge of phenotype ontologies.
Self-motivated and capable of analyzing and solving complex problems through innovative thought and experience.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills and organizational skills are essential for this role.
Prior experience working in a high-volume molecular diagnostic/clinical laboratory.
COMPETENCIES
TECHNICAL AND PROFESSIONAL SKILLS: Consistently demonstrates skills and knowledge relevant for current role; strives to expand the depth and breadth of technical and professional skills; works with a high level of integrity; exhibits focus and discipline; appropriately prioritizes, manages expectations and delivers on commitments.
COLLABORATIVE & COMMUNICATIVE: Models collaboration and teamwork; brings out the best in others; effectively works with all levels, internally and externally; respects and embraces diversity of perspective; communicates clearly and listens carefully; uses good judgment as to what to communicate and when to do so.
ADAPTABLE & INNOVATIVE: Adaptable and embraces change; develops new insights and pursues improvements and efficiency; fosters exchange of new ideas and willing to challenge the status quo; takes initiative and is solution-oriented; engages in work with passion and curiosity.
ABOUT THE NEW YORK GENOME CENTER
The New York Genome Center (NYGC) is an independent, nonprofit, academic research organization dedicated to advancing genomic research. NYGC scientists and staff are furthering new approaches to diagnosing and treating neurological diseases and cancer through their unique capabilities in whole genome sequencing, RNA sequencing, state-of-the art analytics, and the development of genomic tools. NYGC concentrates specifically on disease-based research in the following areas: neuropsychiatric disease (autism, schizophrenia, bipolar); neurodegenerative disease (ALS, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Huntington’s), and cancer.
Located in Lower Manhattan, the New York Genome Center was founded by and remains closely affiliated with twelve leading academic medical centers and research universities in the New York region and beyond, engaging in research projects with and for these institutions. Essential to our collaborative work is an outstanding faculty, whose members typically hold a joint appointment at NYGC and a partner university. They support our scientific mission by conducting independent research in areas of mutual interest to us and the wider scientific community.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
Diversity, equity, and inclusion are central to the core mission at the NYGC. We strive to create a workplace environment that is welcoming and fair to all regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, physical ability, or religion. We believe that when people of various backgrounds, life experiences, and perspectives work together in an inclusive and equitable environment we gain new and valuable perspectives that otherwise would have been missed. Valuing and supporting all NYGC employees as individuals while helping them realize their full potential is critical to promoting greater collaboration, innovation, and discovery – fostering a sense of belonging for our greatest strength, our people. We recognize that there is still work to be done that will require sustained commitment from the entire organization.
The New York Genome Center is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, creed, color, gender, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, age, disability, genetic predisposition or carrier status, protected veteran or military status, domestic violence victim status, partnership status, caregiver status, alienage or citizenship status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. The New York Genome Center takes affirmative action in support of its policy to hire and advance in employment individuals who are minorities, women, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities.
FLSA Status – Exempt
This position is eligible for visa sponsorship and relocation assistance.