Lab Assistant - 134065

UCSD Health Sciences is a $1 billion dollar plus organization encompassing 16 academic departments (14 clinical, 2 basic sciences), 2 preacademic/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.

Assist, under close supervision, with DNA and RNA extraction, library preparation for single-molecule sequencing, bulk sequencing for whole-genome, whole-exome, and targeted panel projects, as well as transcriptome sequencing. Additionally, perform PCR and qPCR procedures, maintain detailed data records, and develop basic programming scripts, all under close supervision. The Lab Assistant will also perform various laboratory and tissue culture facility maintenance duties (including order, store and dispense a variety of supplies; maintain equipment, assist in the operation of laboratory equipment, and general clean-up). The Lab Assistant will assist supervisor and laboratory members with special experiments and various technical assignments, as necessary. Interacts effectively with faculty, postdoctoral scholars, students, and research technicians in a laboratory. Performs other duties as assigned.

• Graduation from high school or a General Education Diploma and one year of laboratory experience or two years of college including courses in chemistry, biochemistry or biology; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Ability to follow basic research protocols and follow instructions closely. Ability to work independently and cooperatively. Ability to effectively communicate with colleagues and superiors, with demonstrated skill in asking questions and advising of problems, via effective use of email, public/shared Google docs, and/or meeting schedules.

• Demonstrated computer skills (including MS Office programs), with experience updating databases by manipulating xls or doc files.

• Knowledge and understanding of laboratory safety and ability to work carefully with potentially harmful agents.

• Knowledge or experience with preparing primary cultures and maintaining cell lines. Knowledge of basic laboratory procedures and equipment, including preparation of buffers.

• Experience with DNA and RNA extractions and library preparations for bulk and single-molecule sequencing.

• Ability to communicate with colleagues and superiors, including asking questions and notification of problems. Ability to work well with others.

• Ability to work independently and cooperatively.

• Attention to protocols and details.

• Ability to follow basic research protocols and follow instructions closely.

• Ability to maintain careful, legible and well-organized laboratory notes.

• Knowledge of Histology to examine stained tissue slides.

• Knowledge of microscopy work including Nanozoomer Slide Scanner training.

• Knowledge and experience in animal room work including tissue extraction, surgery, and injections.

• Knowledge or experience with routine PCR genotyping procedure and qRT-PCR.

• B.S. degree in biology or a related field, or equivalent laboratory experience.

• Basic knowledge of programming languages and willingness to learn novel programming languages to assist in developing of simple programming scripts.

• Understanding of UC ordering procedures.

• Employment is subject to a criminal background check.