POSITION SUMMARY

CHEO hosts several provincial and federal programs including Newborn Screening Ontario (NSO). NSO provides a comprehensive program of analysis, follow-up, education, research and development, ensuring that every newborn receives the highest quality screening and care. At NSO, we are leaders in screening through research, development, education, and innovation. The multidisciplinary team at NSO comprises dedicated clinical, laboratory, management, and administrative staff.

We are seeking a full-time, permanent clinical scientist within the molecular laboratory. The position is hybrid; approximately 40% can be performed from home and 60% is on site at the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario.

RESPONSIBILITIES

The core responsibilities of the Clinical Scientist - Molecular are the interpretation and reporting of data from the molecular laboratory of Newborn Screening Ontario. This includes:

• Collaboration with molecular laboratory leadership to foster a positive and productive working environment.

• Evaluation of variants identified on molecular diagnostic testing and/or through newborn screening.

• Review and/or draft diagnostic and screening reports in collaboration with clinical content specialists.

• Working with other clinical scientists and the Laboratory Director to identify errors, problems, or areas for workflow improvement or enhancement in the molecular diagnostic or screening pathways.

• Maintaining the flow of diagnostic and screening volumes to prevent service delays.

• Oversee the development and validation of assays for the molecular lab, including novel methods required to expand or improve the performance of newborn screening in Ontario.

• Participating in quality assurance and proficiency activities.

• Developing a scholarly program related to screening and diagnostic activities within the lab.

• Participate in the training of fellows, residents and medical students within the genetics and pediatrics programs as well as visiting molecular and biochemical laboratory trainees.

• Participate in the development of operating and capital budgets.

• Participate in periodic review of newborn screens including assay performance, disorder logic, and follow-up/diagnostic practices.

• Be physically present on the premises of the Laboratory for such a period of time as is necessary to discharge the responsibilities of the role and to ensure appropriate coverage when unavailable for a significant period of time.

• Relate and function effectively with applicable accrediting and regulatory agencies, appropriate administrative officials, the health care community, and the patient population served.

QUALIFICATIONS

• A PhD (or MD) scientist with certification or eligibility for certification by the Canadian College of Medical Genetics (or equivalent) in Molecular Genetics or Genetic and Genomic Diagnostics (essential).

• Demonstrated knowledge and skill in the genetic laboratory screening and diagnosis of pediatric disease (essential).

• Excellent data analytic skills, including experience in statistical analyses and programming and interpreting custom reports, scripts, and algorithms (preferred).

• Excellent oral and written communication skills (essential).

• Demonstrated leadership skills (essential).

• Demonstrated research and teaching skills (preferred).