Lab Assistant II - Pediatrics - 139785

Department of Pediatrics is one of the largest departments within the UCSD School of Medicine with comprehensive clinical programs, extensive basic science and clinical research, and diverse educational opportunities for students, residents and fellows. The internationally renowned faculty 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. More than one hundred trainees at the graduate student and postdoctoral level, as well as more than 300 professional, research and administrative staff who along with the department administrators interact closely with the faculty. 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 interested individuals to become a part of our dynamic cutting-edge research, clinical, and educational environment.

Under supervision, this position involves performance of laboratory assays including specimen processing, Purification of DNA and RNA, PCR, tissue dissection, imaging of whole mount and sectioned tissues, and other routine assays. The applicant will plan and perform the experiments, analyze the data and present at lab meetings. In addition, the applicant will perform lab maintenance work including preparation of reagents and making inventory of specimens. The applicant will also assist other lab members in their experiments as needed

• Graduation from high school or a General Education Diploma and two years of laboratory experience or two years of college including courses in the natural, physical or social sciences and one year of laboratory experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience and knowledge and abilities essential to the successful performance of the duties assigned to the position.

• Knowledge of or experience in basic laboratory techniques.

• Ability and willingness to handle and work with human biospecimens and other bio-hazardous, toxic, and carcinogenic materials, and to recognize safety problems. Demonstrated ability to follow established Safety and Bio-hazardous Material Guidelines.

• Knowledge of the operation and maintenance of various lab equipment such as centrifuges, spectrophotometers, balances, pH meters, and electrophoresis equipment.

• Knowledge of or experience with DNA and RNA isolation, RTPCR and qPCR.

• Proficient with the operation of PC's and associated software, including Word, Excel, etc. Demonstrated ability to work with and learn new software for data-analysis.

• Knowledge of and ability to adhere to established UCSD guidelines for safety and environmental issues.

• Superb oral and written communication skills.

• Ability to keep accurate and well-organized lab records, lab notebook and computer data files.

• Demonstrated organizational skills and the ability to order/maintain lab equipment and supplies.

• Demonstrated enthusiasm for learning.

• Experience with protein purification and mouse infection work.

• Employment is subject to a criminal background check and pre-employment physical.

• Must be available for working according to variable schedules including occasional evenings and weekends.

• Must be willing to work occasional extended shifts and/or flexible hours.

• Must have access to reliable transportation.