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Team Lead, Forensic Biology

Government of Alberta, Public Safety and Emergency Services, Sherwood Park, AB, CA

Responsibilities

The Government of Alberta is establishing a new provincial forensic DNA laboratory to enhance investigative support for law enforcement and the justice system. As part of this major public safety initiative, we are seeking a Team Lead to support the operational delivery of forensic DNA services during laboratory implementation and beyond. 

This role offers a unique opportunity to help build a modern, accredited forensic DNA laboratory and contribute to its scientific, operational, and quality frameworks. 

The Role 
Reporting to the Director, Forensic Services, the Team Lead is responsible for the day-to-day operational management of forensic DNA activities. The position provides technical and supervisory leadership to forensic scientists and support staff, ensuring DNA analyses are conducted in accordance with accreditation standards, quality systems, and scientific best practices. 

Key Responsibilities 

  • Coordinate day-to-day forensic DNA casework, including workflow, prioritization, and resource allocation 
  • Provide technical oversight and review of casework to ensure quality, accreditation, and judicial compliance 
  • Support the implementation and transition of validated DNA methods and procedures into operations, in collaboration with the Scientific Lead 
  • Monitor productivity, quality, and turnaround times to meet service standards 
  • Supervise, train, and develop forensic laboratory staff 
  • Ensure staff competency, audit readiness, and adherence to SOPs and quality assurance requirements 
  • Maintain effective partnerships with law enforcement, prosecutors, and forensic partners 
  • Represent the laboratory on provincial committees and as required, provide expert court testimony

Qualifications

Qualifications Required 

  • PhD in forensic science, molecular biology, genetics, or related discipline with 5+ years’ experience in human forensic DNA analysis (or Master’s degree with 7+ years’ experience) 
  • Experience conducting forensic DNA analysis in an accredited laboratory 
  • Demonstrated technical leadership or supervision of scientific staff 
  • Strong knowledge of forensic DNA standards, accreditation, and quality systems 
  • Eligibility to provide expert testimony in court 

Assets 

  • Experience supporting method validation, audits, or accreditation activities 
  • Public-sector or government forensic experience 
  • Familiarity with the National DNA Data Bank (NDDB/CODIS)

Compensation

  • Salary: $3,938.39 to $5,227.82 bi-weekly ($102,791 - $136,446/year) 
  • Prescription Plan 
  • Dental Plan 
  • Extended Medical Benefits Plan 
  • Company Pension Plan

How to apply

For more details on eligibility and how to apply, visit: https://jobpostings.alberta.ca/job/Sherwood-Park-Team-Lead%2C-Forensic-Biology/601182817/ 

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