Specifications include, but are not limited to: •General knowledge of scientific inquiry, isolation, identification and characterization of microorganisms. •Knowledge of the relationship between microorganisms and the disease.•General knowledge of real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR)•General knowledge and experience in application and issues involving molecular diagnostic assays of bacterial and viral diseases•Working knowledge of scientific equipment and supplies, personal protective equipment (PPE) and Biosafety Level 2 practices.•Ability to conduct analysis, with minimum supervision, for the culture and isolation of pathogens from various materials, including clinical, non-clinical and environmental samples.•Ability to maintain aseptic techniques in media and reagent preparation following standard laboratory techniques and practices.•Ability to operate and maintain standard and specialized laboratory equipment. •Ability to determine, with guidance, the proper protocol/procedure needed for analysis.•Ability to interact and communicate with peers.•Ability to follow oral and written instructions and ability to communicate in written and verbal methods. •Ability to perform real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) with minimal supervision.•Ability to perform nucleic acid extraction (manual or using semi-automated or automated platforms) from clinical specimens/isolates or environmental samples with minimal supervision.