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Employment Opportunities

MPLN offers employment opportunities in diagnostics (molecular, cytogenetics, flow cytometry, anatomic pathology) research and clinical trials, business development, sales, marketing, client services and operations. Located in the foothills of the beautiful Great Smoky Mountains, the laboratory is 20 minutes from Knoxville, Tennessee and offers a flexible benefit package that includes a 401k plan, medical, dental, vision and life insurance, as well as short and long term disability options.
Current Positions

Current Positions

  1. 1
    Lead Scientist

    Lead Scientist

    ABOUT US

    Molecular Pathology Laboratory Network, Inc. (MPLN) and its research division Geneuity Clinical Research Services (MPLN/Geneuity) is a privately held College of American Pathologists, New York State Department of Health and ISO15189 accredited laboratory. We offer molecular pathology diagnostic laboratory and contract clinical research services specializing in oncology, infectious disease, women's health, and clinical trials.

    With over 30 years of experience in the CAP/CLIA diagnostic laboratory and 15 years supporting oncology clinical trials as a contract research organization, our company is in line for significant, continued growth.

    GENERAL SUMMARY OF DUTIES:

    The Lead Scientist position is a cross-disciplinary role at MPLN under the direction and supervision of the Vice President of Scientific Operations and Research. The main duty of the Lead Scientist includes participation in assay development and validation to support MPLN’s research and development (R&D) and clinical trial services. Other responsibilities that may be delegated to the Lead Scientist include performing testing as required to fulfill clinical trial contracts, optimizing workflows across the entire laboratory, training and mentoring new employees, and working closely with the Laboratory Operations and Quality managers to provide oversite for quality assurance and routine laboratory operations.

    The Lead Scientist assumes the role of a leadership-level position and will collaborate with the department managers and directors to ensure contracted timelines are met and that quality assurance, testing, and reporting are performed in accordance with the MPLN laboratory requirements. As this position will be 70-80% wet bench work, the Lead Scientist is expected to be 100% on site. The remaining 20% of time will be filled with administrative responsibilities such as report writing, data analysis, and oversite.

    ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS, DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

    • Oversees and leads testing of clinical trial specimens in strict accordance with the current study Protocol.
    • Performs troubleshooting of routine laboratory assays and equipment.
    • Contributes to innovation and workflow improvement projects to streamline patient testing.
    • Performs validation and/or verifications of new tests as assigned.
    • Adheres to compliance guidelines (i.e., ISO 15189) as it pertains to the development process.
    • Functions as the primary trainee on new laboratory equipment, specifically that which supports the development pipeline.
    • Functions as the primary trainer to technologists for new assays transferred to operations/production.
    • Provides basic bioinformatics and analytics support in the context of new assay development. 
    • Drafts validation plans, validation reports, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) as required for the development pipeline.

    Performs other duties, which include, but are not limited to:

    • QA/QC monitoring and reporting according to current MPLN SOPs.
    • Gathers data for quality metrics as assigned.
    • Manage maintenance of assay related equipment.
    • Careful filing/storage of all specimens, papers, test results, and electronic files.

    Performs support and educational/training duties.

    • Assists in training and orientation of personnel as assigned by the supervisor.
    • Assists in training and oversite in specific testing areas such as PBMC operations, as assigned.
    • Helps ensure adequate staffing and coverage.

    Promotes and maintains positive relationships with all contacts.

    • Facilitates resolution of conflicts and problems as appropriate.
    • Promotes effective interpersonal and interdepartmental relationships.
    • Adopts a team approach to work and acts as a role model providing leadership.
    • Demonstrates the ability to communicate effectively and cooperates with all contacts.
    • Displays patience, tact, a cheerful disposition, and enthusiasm.
    • Willing to work beyond normal working hours, different shifts, or different positions when necessary.

    Complies with all MPLN policies and procedures.

    • Complies with conditions of employment as stated in the employee handbook.
    • Helps ensure a safe work environment for all staff.
    • Recognizes incidents and demonstrates the ability to use the NCER system.
    • Educates new staff on reporting procedures and ensures that appropriate forms are completed.

    Contributes to the fulfillment of department objectives.

    • Adapts positively to work environment changes.
    • Utilizes work time, equipment, and all supplies in a cost-effective manner.
    • Assists co-workers with job orientation, growth, and development.
    • Oversees and participates in the collection of data for quality performance improvement metrics as requested.

    KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

    Extensive relevant scientific experience is required, including proficiency in data analysis, assay design, and technical writing. Research experience in molecular biology and cell culturing is preferred.

    EDUCATION, LICENSE OR CERTIFICATIONS REQUIRED:

    The Lead Scientist must have earned a minimum of a master’s degree in biology, biochemistry, or a life science-related discipline. If clinical testing is required, the Lead Scientist must also hold any relevant certifications and meet continuing education requirements.

    WORK ENVIRONMENT:

    The work area is well lit and well ventilated. The potential for exposure to communicable diseases, infectious materials, and potentially harmful chemicals is moderate. Appropriate safety training to mitigate these risks is provided by MPLN.

    PHYSICAL / MENTAL DEMANDS:

    A moderate amount of walking, standing and bending over at desktop and counter-height work surfaces is expected. Sitting for long periods of time may be required, including extended periods working at a computer or reading printed matter. Manual dexterity with both hands is a key demand for effective operation of laboratory instruments and equipment, and for keyboarding. Moderate exposure to musculoskeletal strain may occur from lifting and carrying packages and from reaching above one’s head to place or retrieve stored items. Hearing and vision (aided if necessary) should be within normal ranges.

    Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Some studies will require that operators successfully complete a study-specific qualification protocol that comprises both technical and administrative (organizational) elements: failure to formally ‘qualify’ for a study will preclude participation in those studies.

    MPLN is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

    Candidates must be able to pass a pre-employment background check and drug test.

    Email resumes to HR@MPLNet.com

  2. 2
    Flow Cytometry Manager

    Due to ongoing expansion, Molecular Pathology Laboratory Network (MPLN) has an immediate opening for a full-time Flow Cytometry Manager position in the Maryville, TN laboratory.

    Molecular Pathology Laboratory Network, Inc. (MPLN) is a privately held, College of American Pathologists, New York State Department of Health and ISO15189 accredited molecular diagnostic laboratory specializing in oncology, infectious disease testing, women's health testing and clinical trials.

    This position will provide leadership and manage overall operation of the department; ensure appropriate testing and the highest standards of quality, interpretation, timely performance, and compliance to standards.

    KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

    Provide supervision and oversight of Flow Cytometry testing and analysis in the department and Clinical Research Projects.

    Design, validate, and implement Clinical Research projects.

    Directly oversee the daily work of technologists responsible for Flow Cytometry testing.  

    Oversee daily scheduling, prioritization, and workflow management.  

    Ensure accurate and timely testing, interpretation and reporting of results.

    Review Flow Cytometry workflow and evaluate for acceptability, effectiveness, and best use of resources.  Recommend improvements where needed.  

    Ensure technical policies and procedures are in place, current, and followed.

    Review and oversee quality control procedures for laboratory tests, with timely review of QC data.

    Responsible for Flow Cytometry submission of all CAP, NYSDOH, and internal/alternative proficiency testing

    Supervise/perform validation of new methods and technologies including verifying test validity and accuracy of interpretation.

    Recommend and share decision making for new technologies/equipment.

    Coordinate the implementation of new test protocols into routine processing.

    Create, review and revise SOPs on an ongoing basis.

    Responsible for upkeep and overseeing repair of laboratory equipment.

    Review function checks and calibration records to ensure adherence to good lab practice and regulatory/licensing requirements. 

    Supply validation work to Technical Director for review and reporting. Work with Project Managers to execute their projects.

    Be aware and help with ensuring project timelines and turnaround times are met.

    Calculate validation cost estimates on study quotes for new projects.

    Train team in set up and analysis of new projects.

    Ensure SOPs, Work Instructions (WI), analysis protocols, analysis spreadsheets, etc. are in place and up to date.

    Help and collaborate with the Flow Cytometry Technical Director.

    Perform diagnostic testing and analysis in the laboratory as needed.

    ADMINISTRATIVE AND MANAGEMENT FUNCTIONS

    Attend management meetings; will act as a direct line of communication between management/director and the department.

    Attend Quality meetings.

    Responsible for selection, orientation, training, performance management and day to day results of technologists. Assess competency of lab personnel and create development plans.

    Always ensure adequate staffing and coverage.

    Ensure timely collection of statistical data relating to quality control, work volume, turnaround times, etc.

    Track, review, and sign off on Quality Control and Quality Assurance records.

    Ensure compliance with all regulatory and accrediting agencies.

    KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

    Experience managing a CLIA-regulated Flow Cytometry department highly preferred.

    Must have 5 years of experience in Flow Cytometry including bench work and analysis.

    Must have 2- 3 years of demonstrated success managing and supervising peers and subordinates.

    EDUCATION AND QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:

    The Flow Cytometry Manager should possess a minimum of a bachelor’s degree preferably in Biology, Biochemistry, or a Life Science related discipline.  Master’s or Doctoral degree preferred. 

    Must have 24 semester hours of science courses (6 hours of chemistry, 6 hours of biology, and 12 hours of chemistry, biology or medical laboratory technology in any combination) to meet the requirements found is 42CFR Part 493.1489.

    LICENSE OR CERTIFICATIONS REQUIRED:

    ASCP board of certification as a Specialist in Cytometry (SCYM) or equivalent is preferred.

    TN supervisor license (can be attained after hire date)

    PHYSICAL / MENTAL DEMANDS:

    Ability to stand, walk or sit for an extended period of time.

    Reaching by extending hand(s) or arm(s) in any direction.

    Finger dexterity is required to manipulate objects with fingers rather than with whole hand(s) or arm(s), for example, using a keyboard or a pipetter.

    Communication skills using the spoken word.

    Requires eye/hand coordination.

    Ability to see within normal parameters and distinguish colors.

    Ability to hear within normal range.

    Occasionally required to lift up to 20 lbs.

    Occasional stress when dealing with clients and multiple demands.

    ENVIRONMENTAL / WORKING CONDITIONS:

    Work in well-lighted and ventilated work areas. 

    Slight potential for exposure to infectious materials. 

    Slight potential for chemical exposure.

    Possible exposure to communicable diseases, toxic substances and/or hazardous materials

    Candidates must be able to pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check.

    MPLN is an equal opportunity employer.

  3. 3
    Genomics Scientist

    ABOUT US

    Molecular Pathology Laboratory Network, Inc. (MPLN) and its research division Geneuity Clinical Research Services (MPLN/Geneuity) is a privately held College of American Pathologists, New York State Department of Health and ISO15189 accredited laboratory. We offer molecular pathology diagnostic laboratory and contract clinical research services specializing in oncology, infectious disease, women's health, and clinical trials.

    With over 30 years of experience in the CAP/CLIA diagnostic laboratory and 15 years supporting oncology clinical trials as a contract research organization, our company is in line for significant, continued growth.

    GENERAL SUMMARY OF DUTIES:

    The Genomics Scientist is responsible for corporate leadership, vision, strategy, and portfolio planning around new and emerging human genomic technologies and next-generation sequencing.  The Genomics Scientist provides leadership through a strong blend of technical expertise, diagnostic and/or pharmaceutical experience, and business acumen.  The Genomics Scientist fosters relationships with a variety of strategic partners related to the genomics business and effectively leads the internal validation team to the successful completion of key deliverables tied to business goals and objectives. 

    ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS, DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

    Provides corporate leadership, strategic vision, and tactical guidance to promote organic growth of the Human Genomics/NGS (Illumina sequencing)-based line of business.

    Guides decisions on appropriate test development utilizing Next Generation Sequencing and other advanced sequencing technologies.

    Responsible for the proper use, interpretation, and execution of clinical guidelines, specifically those related to CAP, CLIA, ISO, and FDA requirements.

    Fulfills duties by thoroughly understanding due diligence, asset valuation, alliance development, and portfolio development in molecular diagnostics.

    Responsible for leading technology assessment efforts, including new, emerging technologies in advanced sequencing/NGS and/or personalized molecular medicine.

    Capable of delivering complex molecular assays and validation documents under tight timelines.

    Complies with applicable regulatory and accrediting agency requirements.

    Writes validation documents that are compliant with CAP, CLIA, ISO, and FDA requirements.

    Understands and follows the Compliance plan.

    Promotes and maintains positive relationships with all contacts.

    Facilitates resolution of conflicts and problems as appropriate

    Promotes effective interpersonal and interdepartmental relationships.

    Adopts a team approach to work and acts as a role model providing leadership.

    Maintains a professional attitude when serving our customers, including patients, physicians, and staff.

    Demonstrates the ability to communicate effectively and cooperate with all contacts.

    Displays patience, tact, a cheerful disposition, and enthusiasm.

    Willing to work beyond normal working hours, shifts, or positions when necessary.

    Complies with all MPLN policies and procedures as stated in the employee handbook.

    Assists directors and managers with job orientation, growth, and development.

    Contributes to innovation and continuous improvement of new ideas and better ways of doing things.

    KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

    The Genomics Scientist should have at least 2 years’ experience developing NGS-based Laboratory-Developed Tests (LDTs) for the CLIA environment.

    Five or more years of experience in esoteric assay development is preferred.

    A history of contributions to NGS guidelines and scholarly publications is highly desirable.

    EDUCATION, LICENSE OR CERTIFICATIONS REQUIRED:

    The Genomics Scientist must have earned a doctoral degree from an accredited institution in biological science.

    They must also have significant job experience, including biochemistry or clinical laboratory science. Applicable clinical licensure (e.g., HCLD) is preferred but not required.

    WORK ENVIRONMENT:

    The work area is well-lit and well-ventilated. The potential for exposure to communicable diseases, infectious materials, and potentially harmful chemicals is moderate. MPLN provides appropriate safety training to mitigate these risks.

    PHYSICAL / MENTAL DEMANDS:

    A moderate amount of walking, standing, and bending over at desktop and counter-height work surfaces is expected. Sitting for long periods of time may be required, including extended periods working at a computer or reading printed matter. Manual dexterity with both hands is a key demand for effective operation of laboratory instruments and equipment, and for keyboarding. Moderate exposure to musculoskeletal strain may occur from lifting and carrying packages and from reaching above one’s head to place or retrieve stored items. Hearing and vision (aided if necessary) should be within normal ranges.

    Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. Some studies will require that operators successfully complete a study-specific qualification protocol that comprises both technical and administrative (organizational) elements; failure to formally ‘qualify’ for a study will preclude participation in those studies.

    MPLN is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

    Candidates must be able to pass a pre-employment background check and drug test.

    Email resumes to HR@MPLNet.com

Project Coordinator II – Clinical Research Laboratory

GENERAL SUMMARY OF DUTIES:

The Project Coordinator II position is an onsite position essential to the project services team. By reporting to the VP of Scientific Operations and Research Services, the Project Coordinator II will work closely with laboratory staff, commercial operations, and other project team members to ensure all assigned projects are carried out according to study protocols, work instructions, and study contracts and agreements.

The main duties of the Project Coordinator II are to support Project Managers in handling key accounts by becoming involved in the whole project lifecycle: project & database set up, project maintenance, timely delivery of all protocolled activities, database lock, and study closeout. Once an appropriate level of training has occurred, the Project Coordinator II will be assigned full responsibility for supporting IVD studies as well as other projects that require substantial hands-on study management activities. As MPLN/Geneuity creates a global footprint, the Project Coordinator II may also act as a liaison between MPLN/Geneuity and partner labs across Europe and Asia Pacific.

As this role requires interactions with potential and current MPLN/Geneuity clients, the Project Coordinator II must promote and maintain positive relationships when serving our customers.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS, DUTIES, AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The main responsibility of the Project Coordinator II position is to work both independently and as part of a team to facilitate the smooth running of all assigned clinical trial and IVD projects. Other duties include, but are not limited to:

  • Serve as a committed and informed backup on studies that require additional support.
  • Assemble, coordinate, implement study specific work instructions that accurately reflect the protocol requirements and internal workflow processes.
  • Communicate and liaison with all scientific and laboratory staff to ensure status reports and information are made available to all clinical trial client study personnel.
  • Maintain records of all key study related communications between MPLN/Geneuity and the clinical trials personnel of sponsors, related to studies for which the Project Coordinator has been assigned responsibility.
  • Careful filing of all papers, test results, and electronic files; submission of formally reviewed study data to the sponsor or the appropriate clinical trials personnel.
  • Coordination and facilitation with MPLN/Geneuity resources to ensure assigned studies are executed on time and within budget – to include:
    • Commercial operations
    • Finance and Billing teams
    • Laboratory scientific and technical services
    • Sample management and logistics staff
    • Results and data management
  • Management and organization of digital whole slide images.
  • Transcribe reportables as needed in a timely and accurate manner.
  • Perform reconciliation of data, data pulls, inventory reports, database queries, etc. upon client request.
  • Be responsible for assigned study start up, study preparations and readiness, and ensure all procedures and documentation are in place to allow the timely analysis and reporting of all clinical trial activities.
  • Act as a liaison between MPLN and partner labs.
  • IVD and studies that require substantial hands-on activities:
    • Manage onsite binders and scan requisitions and paperwork as needed to maintain a digital study binder.
    • Enter reportables into a database as needed in an accurate and timely manner.
    • Organize and host all onsite meetings (SIV/IMV/COV meetings, SQV meetings, onsite training, onsite maintenance visits, etc.).  
    • Organization and oversight of study equipment arrival and setup.
    • Attending onsite trainings and meetings.
    • Be the primary contact for study activity-related logistics.
    • Prepare manifests for outbound shipments.
    • Perform data reconciliations as needed.

Essential functions required:

  • Maintain organized and accurate records of all study-related activities.
  • Demonstrate the ability to perform all necessary functions in the MPLN LIS. 
  • Understand and follow general lab safety and annual training as outlined in MPLN’s Safety SOPs.
  • Follow universal precautions without exception, using appropriate personal protective equipment when in the laboratory.
  • Help ensure a safe work environment for all staff.
  • Understands and follows the Compliance plan.
  • Complies with conditions of employment as stated in the employee handbook.
  • Maintain confidentiality of all clinical trial, patient, and laboratory information.
  • Willing to work beyond normal hours, different shifts, or different duties when necessary.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty in an efficient and timely manner. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and experience required:

  • Laboratory experience preferred.
  • Possess the ability to multitask, remain composed during stressful situations, and perform effectively despite shifting priorities, workload, and external pressures.
  • Attention to detail and organization skills required.
  • Excellent communicator, customer service, and project organization skills.
  • Substantial computer skills required (e.g. Microsoft Office, laboratory LIMS/LIS systems, handling large electronic data sets, project management software).

EDUCATION, LICENSE OR CERTIFICATIONS REQUIRED:

Project Coordinators II will have a minimum of 2-3 years of work experience, with one or more years of experience working in a clinical laboratory, clinical trials, project coordination, customer management, or account management role, and hold a BS or BA in a Life Science or related laboratory science field.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The work area is well lit and well ventilated. The potential for exposure to communicable diseases, infectious materials, and potentially harmful chemicals is moderate. Appropriate safety training to mitigate these risks is provided by MPLN.

Pay is up to $60,000 based on experience.

MPLN is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Candidates must be able to pass a background check and drug test.

Project Coordinator I – Clinical Research Laboratory

GENERAL SUMMARY OF DUTIES:

The Project Coordinator I position is an onsite position essential to the project services team. By reporting to the VP of Scientific Operations and Research Services, the Project Coordinator I will work closely with laboratory staff, commercial operations, and other project team members to ensure all assigned projects are carried out according to study protocols, work instructions, and study contracts and agreements.

The main duties of the Project Coordinator I are to support Project Managers in handling key accounts by becoming involved in the whole project lifecycle: project & database set up, project maintenance, timely delivery of all protocolled activities, database lock, and study closeout. As MPLN/Geneuity creates a global footprint, the Project Coordinator I may also act as a liaison between MPLN/Geneuity and partner labs across Europe and Asia Pacific.

As this role may require interactions with potential and current MPLN/Geneuity clients, the Project Coordinator I must promote and maintain positive relationships when serving our customers.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS, DUTIES, AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The main responsibility of the Project Coordinator I position is to work both independently and as part of a team to facilitate the smooth running of all assigned clinical trial projects. Other duties include, but are not limited to:

  • Serve as a committed and informed backup on studies that require additional support.
  • Help assemble, coordinate, and implement study specific work instructions that accurately reflect the protocol requirements and internal workflow processes.
  • Communicate with scientific and laboratory staff to ensure reportables and information are made available to all clinical trial study personnel.
  • Maintain records of all key study related communications between MPLN/Geneuity and the clinical trials personnel, related to studies for which the Project Coordinator has been assigned responsibility.
  • Careful filing of all papers, test results, and electronic files; submission of formally reviewed study data to the sponsor or the appropriate clinical trials personnel.
  • Management and organization of digital whole slide images.
  • Transcription of reportables as needed in a timely and accurate manner.
  • Perform reconciliation of data, data pulls, inventory reports, database queries, etc. upon client request.
  • Act as a liaison between MPLN and partner labs as needed.
  • Perform backup functions for IVD studies and other studies that require substantial hands-on activities:
    • Manage onsite binders and scan requisitions in paperwork as needed to maintain a digital study binder.
    • Enter reportables into a database as needed in an accurate and timely manner.
    • Organization and oversight of study equipment arrival and setup.
    • Attending onsite trainings and meetings as needed.
    • Prepare manifests for outbound shipments.
    • Perform data reconciliations as needed.

Essential functions required:

  • Maintain organized and accurate records of all study-related activities.
  • Demonstrate the ability to perform all necessary functions in the MPLN LIS.
  • Understand and follow general lab safety and annual training as outlined in MPLN’s Safety SOPs.
  • Follow universal precautions without exception, using appropriate personal protective equipment when in the laboratory.
  • Help ensure a safe work environment for all staff.
  • Understands and follows the Compliance plan.
  • Complies with conditions of employment as stated in the employee handbook.
  • Maintain confidentiality of all clinical trial, patient, and laboratory information.
  • Willing to work beyond normal hours, different shifts or different duties when necessary.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty in an efficient and timely manner. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and experience required:

  • Laboratory experience preferred.
  • Possess the ability to multitask, remain composed during stressful situations, and perform effectively despite shifting priorities, workload, and external pressures.
  • Attention to detail and organization skills required.
  • Excellent communicator, customer service, and project organization skills.
  • Substantial computer skills required (e.g., Microsoft Office, laboratory LIMS/LIS systems, handling large electronic data sets, project management software).

EDUCATION, LICENSE OR CERTIFICATIONS REQUIRED:

Project Coordinators I must hold a BS or BA in a Life Science or related laboratory science field.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The work area is well lit and well ventilated. The potential for exposure to communicable diseases, infectious materials, and potentially harmful chemicals is moderate. Appropriate safety training to mitigate these risks is provided by MPLN.

Pay is up to $55,000 depending on experience.

MPLN is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Candidates must be able to pass a background check and drug test.

To apply, submit your résumé to hr@mplnet.com