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Dna Testing Jobs in Maryland (NOW HIRING)

GAP Solutions, Inc

Biologist (52560)

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$115K - $133K/yr

Research and recommend implementation to qPCR and multiplex PCR, DNA and RNA isolation and ... testing and research. * Provide input for software programs to support predictive modeling of ...

New

GAP SOLUTIONS INC

Biologist (52560)

Bethesda, MD

Research and recommend implementation to qPCR and multiplex PCR, DNA and RNA isolation and ... testing and research. * Provide input for software programs to support predictive modeling of ...

New

GAP SOLUTIONS INC

Biologist (52560)

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$115 - $133/hr

Research and recommend implementation to qPCR and multiplex PCR, DNA and RNA isolation and ... testing and research. * Provide input for software programs to support predictive modeling of ...

New

Reflexive Concepts

Software Engineer I

Annapolis, MD · On-site

... DNA) mission. Qualifications: * Seven (7) years experience as a SWE in programs and contracts of ... Experience with MapReduce * Experience with JUnit testing and code coverage * Experience with ...

Socket.dev

Biological Scientist

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$105 - $112/hr

... analysis, DNA isolation, DNA purification, DNA sequencing, flow cytometry, gene cloning ... Perform clinical and research testing on fresh samples of patients blood for macrophage analysis ...

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How much do dna testing jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for dna testing in Maryland is $25.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.22 and $30.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is DNA testing?

DNA testing is a scientific method used to identify genetic information from an individual's DNA. It involves collecting a sample—usually saliva, blood, or a cheek swab—and analyzing specific regions of the DNA for markers that can reveal relationships, ancestry, or genetic health risks. The process is highly accurate and commonly used for purposes such as paternity testing, ancestry research, and medical diagnostics. Results are typically available within a few days to a few weeks, depending on the type of test and the laboratory. DNA testing is confidential and regulated to ensure privacy and reliability.

What is a DNA testing job?

DNA testing jobs include a variety of laboratory positions. Someone in this field may study DNA for a clinical trial, test for a genetic disorder, or determine paternity. These positions are also available in forensics, or to identify criminal suspects. Most DNA testing jobs involve handling up to several dozen samples at any given time, including processing the paperwork and correctly labelling each sample for tracking. Senior roles may involve demonstrating laboratory techniques to entry-level employees, such as a technician or assistant.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a DNA testing specialist?

To thrive as a DNA Testing Specialist, you need a strong background in molecular biology, genetics, and laboratory techniques, typically supported by a relevant degree in biology or forensic science. Familiarity with PCR, DNA sequencing equipment, and laboratory information management systems (LIMS) is essential, and certifications such as ASCP Molecular Biology can be advantageous. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong communication skills help ensure accurate results and clear reporting. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining scientific integrity, ensuring reliable test outcomes, and supporting legal or medical decision-making.

What does a typical day look like for a DNA testing specialist in a laboratory setting?

A typical day for a DNA Testing Specialist involves preparing and processing biological samples, conducting DNA extraction and amplification procedures, analyzing genetic data using specialized software, and ensuring quality control throughout each step. The role requires meticulous attention to detail, adherence to strict protocols, and thorough documentation of results. Collaboration with forensic scientists, medical professionals, or law enforcement may also be involved, depending on the purpose of the testing. Staying updated on new technologies and maintaining laboratory equipment are also important aspects of the job.

What is the difference between Dna Testing vs Forensic Scientist?

AspectDna TestingForensic Scientist
Required CredentialsLaboratory certifications, DNA analysis trainingForensic science degree, criminal justice background
Work EnvironmentClinical labs, private labsCrime labs, law enforcement agencies
Industry UsageHealthcare, paternity, ancestryCrime scene investigation, legal cases

While Dna Testing focuses on analyzing DNA samples for health, ancestry, or paternity purposes, Forensic Scientists apply DNA analysis within criminal investigations. Both roles require laboratory skills and certifications, but Forensic Scientists often work in law enforcement settings and handle legal evidence, whereas Dna Testing professionals typically work in healthcare or private labs. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the DNA analysis industry.

Do you need a license to do DNA testing?

DNA testing professionals may need a license or certification depending on the jurisdiction and the type of testing performed. Clinical or legal DNA testing often requires specific credentials, such as a license for laboratory operation or certification for genetic counselors, while direct-to-consumer testing typically does not. It is important to check local regulations and industry standards for compliance.

How to get a job in DNA testing?

To get a job in DNA testing, candidates typically need a background in biology, genetics, or a related field, along with laboratory skills and familiarity with DNA analysis tools. Relevant certifications or training in molecular biology or forensic science can improve job prospects, and positions are often available in laboratories, research institutions, or healthcare settings.

What degree do you need to do DNA testing?

DNA testing professionals typically need at least a bachelor's degree in biology, genetics, forensic science, or a related field. Advanced roles may require a master's degree or higher, along with laboratory skills and certifications such as ASCP or AABB accreditation.
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Dna Testing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dna Testing job openings in Maryland as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,034 per year, or $25 per hour.

NIST PREP Senior Research Fellow in Forensic DNA Documentary Standards Harmonization and DNA Working

Southeastern Universities Research Association

Gaithersburg, MD • On-site

$170K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

This position is part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Professional Research Experience Program (PREP). NIST recognizes that its research staff may want to collaborate with researchers at academic institutions on specific projects of mutual interest and, therefore, requires those institutions to be recipients of a PREP award. The PREP program involves staff from a wide range of backgrounds conducting scientific research across various fields. Individuals in this position will perform technical work supporting the collaboration's scientific research.
Research Title: Forensic DNA Documentary Standards Harmonization and DNA Working Group Collaboration
The work will entail: The Associate will collaborate with the NIST Forensic Science Standards Program and Organization of Scientific Area Committees (OSAC) for Forensic Science to review draft and published forensic DNA documentary standards for alignment with existing interdisciplinary standards and determine a pathway to enhance implementation. This role will also review scientific literature for suggested technical upgrades to new or existing forensic DNA standards and categorize the literature for working group use. This role involves collaborating with NIST staff, Standards Developing Organizations (SDOs), OSAC's Biology Scientific Area Committee and Forensic Biology Subcommittee to review documentary standards and provide suggested technical upgrades or consolidation recommendations to bring the documents into alignment with existing standards published by International Organization of Standardization (ISO) and ASTM E30.11 Interdisciplinary Forensic Science Standards Subcommittee. This role will also engage with working groups on forensic DNA topics such as DNA recovery from fired cartridge cases and new starts.
U.S. Citizen Preferred
Key responsibilities will include but are not limited to:
  • Harmonization with ISO 17025: Review draft and published forensic DNA documentary standards for alignment with ISO 17025 General Requirements for the Competence of Testing and Calibration Laboratories and provide recommendations for how the standards can be consolidated to improve alignment and enhance implementation in the United States.
  • Harmonization with ASTM E30.11 Interdisciplinary Forensic Science Standards: Review draft and published forensic DNA documentary standards for alignment with interdisciplinary standards published by ASTM E30.11 Interdisciplinary Forensic Science Standards Subcommittee and provide recommendations for how the standards can be consolidated to improve alignment and enhance implementation in the United States.
  • Harmonization with SWGDAM: Review draft and published forensic DNA documentary standards for alignment and technical gaps with existing SWGDAM Guidelines and provide suggestions for harmonizing the documents.
  • Implementation of Forensic Science Standards by Colleges/Universities: Facilitate communications with forensic science academic programs at U.S. colleges/universities (both FEPAC accredited and unaccredited) to understand how forensic science standards listed on the OSAC Registry are integrated to curriculums.
  • Technical Coordination #1: Facilitate meetings with a Forensic DNA Technical Leaders and DNA Examiners working group to expand the pathways for both standards development and future research optimizing the collection, extraction and recovery of human DNA from fired cartridge cases collected at crime scenes.
  • Technical Literature Categorization: Consolidate and categorize scientific literature for forensic DNA activity-level evaluations including references on Transfer, Persistence, Prevalence, and Recovery (TPPR).
  • Technical Coordination #2: Facilitate meetings with forensic scientists and researchers on advanced topics like whole genome DNA sequencing, rapid DNA, TPPR, and challenges with standards implementation.
  • Technical Communication: Draft technical summaries of forensic DNA publications, working group outputs, advanced forensic DNA issues, and develop campaign plans for outreach and promotion of work products.
  • Engagement with OSAC Units and ASB Consensus Body: Participate in virtual meetings with OSAC's Biology Scientific Area Committee and Human Forensic Biology Subcommittee as well as the Academy Standards Board DNA Consensus Body to discuss potential harmonization and consolidation changes for forensic DNA documentary standards.

Qualifications
  • A master's degree in a physical science (e.g., biology, chemistry), forensic science or a related field.
  • Minimum of 10 years' experience in forensic science.
  • Minimum of 5 years' experience serving as a DNA Technical Leader or Forensic Biology Supervisor/Manager in a public or private forensic laboratory with DNA capabilities.
  • Demonstrate experience with ISO 17025 accreditation
  • Knowledge of Forensic Science Education Programs Accreditation Commission (FEPAC)
  • Strong oral and written communication skills.

Privacy Act StatementAuthority: 15 U.S.C. § 278g-1(e)(1) and (e)(3) and 15 U.S.C. § 272(b) and (c)
Purpose: The National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST) hosts the Professional Research Experience Program (PREP) which is designed to provide valuable laboratory experience and financial assistance to undergraduates, post-bachelor's degree holders, graduate students, master's degree holders, postdocs, and faculty.
PREP is a 5-year cooperative agreement between NIST laboratories and participating PREP Universities to establish a collaborative research relationship between NIST and U.S. institutions of higher education in the following disciplines including (but may not be limited to) biochemistry, biological sciences, chemistry, computer science, engineering, electronics, materials science, mathematics, nanoscale science, neutron science, physical science, physics, and statistics. This collection of information is needed to facilitate administrative functions of the PREP Program.
Routine Uses: NIST will use the information collected to perform the requisite reviews of the applications to determine eligibility, and to meet programmatic requirements. Disclosure of this information is also subject to all the published routine uses as identified in the Privacy Act System of Records Notices: NIST-1: NIST Associates.
Disclosure: Furnishing this information is voluntary. When you submit the form, you are indicating your voluntary consent for NIST to use of the information you submit for the purpose stated.
SURA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We believe that no one should be discriminated against because of their differences, such as age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity and expression, religion, or sexual orientation. All employment decisions shall be made without regard to age, race, creed, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, disability status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, citizenship status, or any other basis as protected by federal, state, or local law.
PREP0005254

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