Research Laboratory Technician II: USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of Southern California - Los Angeles, CA
posted 5 months ago
About the position
The Research Laboratory Technician II position at the USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center offers an exciting opportunity to work at one of the top cancer centers in the nation. The Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, part of the USC Keck School of Medicine, has recently received an outstanding score on its NCI Core Grant renewal, highlighting its commitment to excellence in cancer research. The successful candidate will work under the guidance of Dr. Amir Goldkorn, a medical oncologist and physician-scientist, who is the Associate Director for Translational Research at the Cancer Center. The Goldkorn Lab, along with the adjacent Liquid Biopsy Core, conducts translational studies that involve collaboration with multiple clinical investigators. This research utilizes blood samples collected from cancer patients treated at USC and other collaborating institutions across the country. In this role, the technician will be responsible for recovering circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and cell-free nucleic acids (cfDNA, cfRNA) from blood samples using various instruments and methodologies developed in the lab. The technician will also be involved in generating cellular and molecular profiles from these liquid biopsies, which are crucial for developing new multi-parametric biomarkers aimed at guiding the treatment of advanced cancers. The position requires a proactive individual who is not only technically skilled but also eager to innovate and contribute to the advancement of liquid biopsies and precision oncology. The technician will coordinate the receipt of blood specimens, process and analyze these samples, and catalog the results. This unique position combines clinically relevant samples with cutting-edge science and technologies, making it ideal for candidates who are passionate about cancer research and laboratory work. Candidates with a background in cancer biology or a similar environment are particularly encouraged to apply, as they will bring valuable experience to the team.
Responsibilities
- Coordinate receipt of blood specimens for analysis.
- Process and analyze blood samples to recover circulating tumor cells and cell-free nucleic acids.
- Catalog and maintain records of processed samples and results.
- Develop novel liquid biopsy analysis techniques in collaboration with the research team.
- Work closely with the Liquid Biopsy Core Manager and other team members to ensure efficient workflow.
- Provide routine analysis and interpretation of research data.
Requirements
- Minimum of a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field.
- 1-2 years of laboratory experience, preferably in a cancer biology lab or similar environment.
- Proficiency in tissue culture, PCR, and other basic cell and molecular biology techniques.
- Working knowledge of laboratory equipment and research protocols.
- Knowledge of computer analysis techniques.
Nice-to-haves
- Experience with blood sample processing.
- Familiarity with advanced molecular biology techniques.
Benefits
- Competitive hourly rate ranging from $24.23 to $26.45.
- Opportunity to work in a prestigious cancer research environment.
- Access to cutting-edge research technologies and methodologies.
