UC San Diego Looking for Stem Cell & Molecular Biology Research Associate – 125845 at Oakland, CA  Full Time

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DESCRIPTION

UCSD Health Sciences is a $1 billion dollar plus organization encompassing 16 academic departments (14 clinical, 2 basic sciences), 2 pre-academic/hospital departments, 2 professional schools (School of Medicine and Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences), 2 hospitals, and various other programs and units all dedicated towards fulfilling the Health Sciences missions. The UCSD Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine (CMM) is one of two basic science units in the School of Medicine where world-class researchers study fundamental cellular processes and pathways using a variety of techniques from classical genetics and fluorescence microscopy to high-throughput genomics, systems biology, and crystallography. Our 36 faculty and over 200 postdoctoral scholars, graduate students, and research staff work on the cutting edge of biology, cutting across fields from basic biochemistry and genetics to genomics, systems biology and stem cell biology. The faculty also play a major role in medical and graduate student training, providing educational and programmatic offerings that span several disciplines and provide diversity to meet the interests of a broad spectrum of students and scholars. The diverse mix of ages, backgrounds, and talents creates a robust work environment with challenging career opportunities and a commitment to continued growth potential. We constantly seek to recruit highly motivated, technologically-advanced, and deeply interested individuals who are ready to become a part of our dynamic research and educational environment.

Under supervision, the incumbent will independently perform standard laboratory procedures with human-derived cell lines and mouse primary cultures from dissociated tissue, other standard experimental procedures, and a limited variety of non-standard or highly specialized experimental procedures. Incumbent will conduct studies with PI and other lab members. Studies will include 1) Isolation of primary cells from mouse tissues, 2) Growth and maintenance of cell cultures, 3) Genetic manipulation of these cells with viral vectors, 4) Characterization of resultant phenotypes, including isolation of RNA and measurements of gene expression. Procedures will include molecular biology (generation of packaged viral vectors, PCR, and RNA isolation) and light microscopy of embryonic and neuronal cell cultures as well as basic molecular and cellular biology techniques (Cell transfection, genomic screening, cloning, gene expression, immunocytochemistry, tissue culture and maintenance of biochemistry equipment). Perform tissue culture of primary cells, preparation of lentiviruses and viral infection techniques. Perform other routine biology and biology techniques. Other tasks as required by the supervisor and project scientists. Incumbent will also be involved with general lab organization procedures. Performs other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Theoretical and/or practical knowledge in cellular and molecular biology, genetics, stem cell or related field as typically acquired by a Bachelor’s degree, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Demonstrated ability to perform molecular biology techniques including DNA and RNA preparation/extraction, PCR, and gel electrophoresis.

• Proven ability to perform biochemical and laboratory techniques and demonstrated experience to prepare buffers and solutions, as well as various staining solutions.

• Experience with the operation of a personal computer and software application, such as Access, MS Word and Excel.

• Experience with confocal, light, and fluorescence microscopes performing fixation of cell culture and tissue samples in addition to immunofluorescence techniques (antibody selection and preparation).

• Demonstrated ability to follow step-wise experimental protocols.

• Proven ability to maintain effective working relationships with other staff members, students, faculty and scientists in a multi-cultural lab.

• Experience with general lab maintenance including cleaning, stocking supplies.

• Proven ability to prioritize and perform efficiently.

• Willing to comply to UCSD policies and procedures and to stay informed and comply with laboratory safety rules.

• Demonstrated skill and ability to keep accurate data.

• Proven ability to read, comprehend, and discuss research materials.

• Demonstrated ability to follow established Safety and Biohazardous Material Guidelines.

• Demonstrated ability to independently generate high-throughput sequencing libraries from RNA samples.

• Proven ability to maintain embryonic stem cells and neuronal precursor cells in undifferentiated state.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

• Job offer is contingent upon satisfactory clearance based on Background Check results.

• Willingness to work with animals, lentivirus, radioactive material, human tissue and standard hazardous laboratory compounds.

• Willing to work evenings and weekends when necessary.

Job offer is contingent on successful engagement in the UC COVID-19 Vaccination program (fully vaccinated with documented proof or approved exception/deferral).

If applicable, life-support certifications (BLS, NRP, ACLS, etc.) must include hands-on practice and in-person skills assessment; online-only certification is not acceptable.

UC San Diego Health Sciences is comprised of our School of Medicine, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, The Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science, and our Student Health and Well-Being Department. We have long been at the forefront of translational – or “bench-to-bedside” – research, transforming patient care through discovery and innovation leading to new drugs and technologies. Translational research is carried out every day in the hundreds of clinical trials of promising new therapies offered through UC San Diego Health, and in the drive of our researchers and clinician-scientists who are committed to having a significant impact on patient care. We invite you to join our team!

Applications/Resumes are accepted for current job openings only. For full consideration on any job, applications must be received prior to the initial closing date. If a job has an extended deadline, applications/resumes will be considered during the extension period; however, a job may be filled before the extended date is reached.

To foster the best possible working and learning environment, UC San Diego strives to cultivate a rich and diverse environment, inclusive and supportive of all students, faculty, staff and visitors. For more information, please visit .

UC San Diego Health is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, gender identity or sexual orientation. For the complete University of California nondiscrimination and affirmative action policy see:

UC San Diego is a smoke and tobacco free environment. Please visit for more information.

UC San Diego Health maintains a marijuana and drug free environment. Employees may be subject to drug screening.