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Texas A&M University · 11 hours ago

Lead Scientist - Toxicology

College Station, TX

Full-time

Onsite

Lead/Staff

8+ years exp

Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory is seeking a Lead Scientist - Toxicology who will serve as a subject-matter expert providing analytical, interpretive, and consultative services related to toxicants affecting animal health and food safety. The role involves advanced analytical testing, method development, and collaboration with various stakeholders to ensure timely and accurate diagnostic results.

Higher Education

Growth Opportunities

H1B Sponsor Likely

Responsibilities

Participates in sample processing by ensuring samples are fit for purpose of test, and are preserved in optimal condition throughout the course of testing and review. Reviews submittal forms and interprets test requests/client instruction(s)

Conducts qualitative and quantitative analysis of toxicants, including drugs, pesticides, metals and minerals, and environmental contaminants including seeds and plants. Selects appropriate analytical workflows employing LC-MS/MS, GC-MS, ICP-MS, and other advanced instrumentation guiding scientific and technical staff through testing methodology. Interprets analytical findings and provides written/verbal reports summarizing results, toxicological significance, differential considerations, and potential exposure sources. Serves as the primary consultant for toxicology cases, assisting veterinarians and pathologists with test selection, sampling strategies, and case interpretation

Performs microscopy and microscopic identification of plant/ingesta materials associated with toxic exposure. Supports digital toxicology initiatives, including remote identification of toxic materials where appropriate. Performs instrument calibration, maintenance, troubleshooting, corrective actions, and control review

Develops, optimizes, and validates new analytical methods to expand laboratory capabilities and meet emerging diagnostic needs. Reads, computes and records observations, results and measurements into LIMS. Ensures documentation for all tests performed in the section meets quality assurance requirements. Recognizes abnormal values to be further reviewed. Manages toxicology caseload, prioritizes sample flow, and ensures timely completion of testing. Participates in research, surveillance programs, and special projects related to toxic exposures, environmental health, or regulatory monitoring. Contributes toxicology expertise during unusual disease events, mortality investigations, or suspected contamination incidents

Contacts clients to clarify basic test requests, verify sources/locations for specimens, and provide expertise for resolution of problematic sample submissions. Prepares scientific manuscripts, conference abstracts, technical bulletins, and laboratory guidance documents as needed. Collaborates with veterinarians, pathologists, chemists, epidemiologists, and external agencies to support interdisciplinary case reviews. Provides toxicology consultation to state and federal partners (e.g., USDA, FDA, EPA, state departments of agriculture and health). Delivers educational outreach for clients and stakeholders through presentations, workshops, and training materials. May be called upon to serve as subject matter expert to support clients in legal depositions or testimony

Adheres and conforms to quality assurance, safety programs, and procedures. Assists in identifying incidents of non-conformance and noncompliance. Reviews quality assurance documents (Standard Operating Procedures, forms, etc.) to ensure clarity of instructions and performs trainings and testing within a timely manner. Responsible for safe handling and disposal of hazardous chemicals when relevant. Evaluates proficiency test results and implements continuous quality improvement initiatives. Performs instrument calibration, maintenance, troubleshooting, corrective actions, and control review. Develops and updates standard operating procedures (SOPs), safety documentation, and compliance policies

Reads, interprets, and performs all tests in accordance with standard operating procedures (SOPs). Develops and updates standard operating procedures (SOPs), safety documentation, and compliance policies

Leads or supports scientific and technical staff in establishing optimal reference materials for testing

Catalogs incoming supplies and stock inventory, ensuring maintenance of inventory system. Recognizes and informs technical and administrative staff when supply inventory is low, inadequate, or expired in a timely manner. Provides expertise for selection and implementation of modern instrumentation best fit for toxicology testing

Maintains accurate, complete, and compliant documentation supporting toxicology casework, method performance, and laboratory operations. Ensures timely filing and electronic management of records within the laboratory information and document management systems, including but not limited to analytical worksheets, accession records, regulatory and quality assurance documentation, safety records, equipment maintenance logs, and validation materials. Adheres to agency, state, and federal requirements for records retention, data integrity, and confidentiality

Provides mentorship and technical training to laboratory staff and trainees on established and emerging toxicology methodologies, instrumentation, and best laboratory practices. Supports onboarding and competency development for new personnel on proficient analytical stations, offering constructive feedback and guidance to ensure accuracy, efficiency, and compliance. Maintains regular communication with Section leadership regarding training progress, proficiency assessments, and workforce development needs

Promotes a collaborative, respectful, and professional laboratory culture that supports high-quality diagnostic outcomes. Participates in cross-training and knowledge sharing across analytical chemistry and related laboratory sections to enhance operational resilience. Provides scientific and operational support to colleagues during periods of increased workload, complex case demands, or staff absences, contributing to timely case turnaround and consistent service delivery

Works in conjunction with Diagnostic Services and Marketing to actively promote new or modified tests, TVMDL services or other client-education topics by writing and/or editing copy, speaking at conferences or meetings, or participating in TVMDL-sponsored exhibit shows. Assists/hosts/leads programs for 4-H students, career fairs, student tours and other lab guests

Performs other job-related duties as required

Qualification

ToxicologyAnalytical ChemistryInstrumental AnalysisQuality AssuranceLaboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS)MultitaskingCommunication SkillsAttention to Detail

Required

Master's degree or higher in a related field or any equivalent combination of training and experience

Eight years of related experience

Advanced knowledge of section-specific discipline

Knowledge of quality assurance and safety programs in a laboratory

Ensures attention to detail

Able to multitask and work cooperatively with others

Able to perform assigned assays with minimal technical supervision and considerable independent decision making

Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Must have a valid Texas motor vehicle operator's license or ability to obtain within 30 days of employment

Preferred

Doctoral degree (PhD, DVM, or equivalent) with advanced training in toxicology, veterinary toxicology, pharmacology, analytical chemistry, or related discipline

Experience working in a veterinary diagnostic or public health laboratory

Familiarity with ISO/IEC 17025, AAVLD accreditation, QA/QC systems, and laboratory information management systems (LIMS)

Research or case experience involving livestock, companion animals, wildlife, or feed contamination

Demonstrated experience with instrumental analysis (LC-MS/MS, GC-MS, or comparable platforms)

Strong knowledge of toxicokinetics, aoxicodynamics, veterinary pharmacology, and mechanisms of toxicity

Ability to interpret clinical, pathological, and analytical data in an integrated diagnostic context

Excellent communication skills, particularly in translating complex toxicological findings for diverse audiences

Experience in toxic plant identification or rangeland toxicology

Benefits

TVMDL will cover all costs.

Company

Texas A&M University

Glassdoor4.4

Texas A&M University has a proud history that stretches back to 1876 when The Agricultural and Mechanical College of Texas became the first public institution of higher learning in the state of Texas.

Founded in 1876

College Station, TX, US

10001+ employees

https://tamu.edu

H1B Sponsorship

Texas A&M University has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships. Please note that this does not guarantee sponsorship for this specific role. Below presents additional info for your reference. (Data Powered by US Department of Labor)

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