Staff Research Associate

University of California - San Diego, CA

Full-time - Entry Level

San Diego, CA

Educational Services

About the position

The Staff Research Associate at the University of California San Diego will play a crucial role in conducting research focused on lung development, regeneration, aging, and disease using mouse models. Under the guidance of the Principal Investigator (PI), the incumbent will manage the laboratory's flow cytometry and cell sorting capabilities, which includes running fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) and ex vivo 3D co-culture assays. These assays are essential for evaluating the contribution of fibroblasts to epithelial progenitor growth and differentiation. In addition to managing FACS operations for various PIs within the Division of Biological Sciences, the Staff Research Associate will be responsible for generating and analyzing data, as well as presenting findings during lab meetings. The role also encompasses organizing and maintaining the laboratory environment, monitoring lab expenditures, and serving as the lab's biohazard and safety coordinator. Training and managing undergraduate research assistants will be a key responsibility, along with assisting others in their experiments. The incumbent will also be expected to perform other duties as assigned, contributing to the overall success of the research team.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on lung development, regeneration, aging, and disease in mouse models under the direction of the Principal Investigator.
• Manage lab flow cytometry and cell sorting capabilities, including running FACS and ex vivo 3D co-culture assays.
• Generate data, analyze results, and present findings at lab meetings.
• Organize and maintain the laboratory, including monitoring lab expenditures.
• Serve as the lab biohazard and safety coordinator.
• Train and manage undergraduate research assistants and assist others in their experiments.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Experience working with infectious agents of BL2/BL2+ using in vivo models.
• Theoretical and practical knowledge of biochemistry, molecular biology, immunology, and genetics, acquired through a BS in Biology or related field or equivalent experience.
• Proven ability to independently participate in the execution of research projects, including planning and organizing experiments.
• Experience in sterile technique for the propagation of prokaryotic and mammalian cells.
• Extensive knowledge of specialized scientific terminology related to molecular biology, cell biology, and animal physiology.
• Experience working with mice as a research model, including genotyping, maintaining mouse lines, and performing surgeries and dissections.
• Ability to utilize scientific literature and apply it to research projects, including conducting literature searches.
• Excellent organizational skills to keep accurate records and manage a varied workload.
• Excellent interpersonal communication skills to facilitate communication about lab requirements and research plans.
• Familiarity with Apple and PC computers and associated software, with a willingness to update skills as needed.
• Demonstrated ability to hire and manage undergraduate student employees and train others in lab techniques.
• Knowledge of safety protocols and experience with Safety Data Sheets and hazard communication.
• Experience with proper handling, storage, and disposal of chemicals and biohazardous materials.

Nice-to-haves

• Familiarity with laws and regulations governing the housing and management of laboratory animals.
• Sensitivity to the needs of caged laboratory animals in compliance with AAALAC standards.

Benefits

• Open salary based on experience and qualifications.