Genetics Assistant

Edmonton Medical Genetic Services is responsible for the provision of genetic diagnoses, risk assessment, test interpretation, genetic counselling, follow up and management of patients across the lifespan, affected or at risk for a genetic condition. Services are highly diverse and include subspecialties in inherited metabolics, hereditary cancer, cardiovascular, rare disease diagnostics, prenatal, ocular, neurology and general. This highly skilled multidisciplinary team comprising of Administrative Support, Geneticists, Genetic Counsellors, Nurses, Social Work, Dietitians and Pharmacy, work in a shared care model to provide the highest quality of genetic services. This requires intensive genetic work up, including complex genetic testing. With the necessary undergraduate Science degree the Genetics Assistant (GA) will work closely with geneticists, nurses and/or genetic counsellors, supporting duties that may include but are not exclusive to: disclosure of selected low risk/reassuring genetic test results, as determined by the geneticist or genetic counsellor, developing patient education and decision making tools as required by the service, responding to community and health care provider queries, and assisting with group counselling sessions. The GA will require knowledge of principles of genetics to address patient and provider questions, within the scope of this position. Excellent interpersonal and critical thinking skills with attention to privacy and confidentiality are necessary given the highly sensitive work.

As a Genetic Assistant you will work as a member of the genetics team to support workflows and clinical outcomes. You will be required to have a solid understanding of genetic testing, genetic conditions and patterns of inheritance. As a part of your day-to-day work, you may respond to queries, concerns and feedback from healthcare providers and/or patients. You may also liaise with patients, families and/or clinicians to receive informed consent, collect information, coordinate test ordering and sample collection, and to communicate select test results, including associated clinical documentation. You may be required to complete literature reviews and develop form letters, information sheets and educational tools. Assistance with face-to-face, virtual and group education/counselling sessions may also be required.

Completion of a bachelor's degree in Science, specializing in Genetics or related discipline.

Ability to confidently make and receive phone calls from a variety of healthcare professionals and patients. Confidence in face to face and telephone communication. Excellent verbal, nonverbal, and written communication skills. Ability to communicate effectively. Demonstrated experience in performing and critiquing literature searches. A strong emotional quotient is necessary to work effectively in this shared care model.

Experience working within a clinical genetics/metabolic service (volunteer, student or previous staff member). Strong knowledge in clinical genetics, molecular biology and/or genetics technology. Hospital experience and knowledge of the health systems is an asset. Scientific writing experience is an asset.