Research Associate - Medicine - 141408

The Department of Medicine (DOM) is the largest department within the UCSD School of Medicine and is responsible for fulfilling the teaching, research, and clinical missions of the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine. The department employs approximately 500 salaried faculty, 168 academic appointees, 331 residents, fellow and postdocs and 479 staff personnel.

Under supervision, the Research Associate will be responsible for the maintenance of a stem cell biology/cardiac research laboratory, performance of a variety of laboratory procedures, and guidance and training of laboratory staff as needed. The Research Associate position requires an extensive working knowledge of aseptic technique for tissue culture procedures as well as molecular biology assays. The incumbent will mainly work with human pluripotent stem cell (hESC) and human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) maintenance and hESC/hiPSC-derived cardiomyocytes differentiation protocols. Assays within the scope of work include fluorescent activated cell sorting (FACS), immunohistochemistry, image data acquisition, confocal and immunofluorescence microscopy. Laboratory tasks include techniques of molecular biology such as CRISPR gene editing technology, RT-PCR, DNA and RNA purification . Administrative responsibilities include preparing and modifying protocols, maintaining accurate records, and organizing results obtained in digital platforms. Furthermore, the incumbent will assist in general lab duties, such as equipment maintenance for tissue culture, inventory of reagents and ordering of supplies, and will assist PhD students, post-docs and senior scientists with sample collection and measurements, end-point analysis, and troubleshooting experiments. Performs other duties as assigned.

• Theoretical knowledge of molecular and cellular biology, biology or closely related field as typically attained by a Bachelor's of Science degree in an appropriate field of science or equivalent in education and experience.

• Knowledge and experience in tissue culture, specifically in the maintenance human embryonic stem cells (hESCs/iPSCs).

• Experience differentiating hESCs/iPSCs, specifically into cardiomyocytes and other cardiac lineages.

• Knowledge in fluorescent activated cell sorting (FACS) and flow cytometry.

• Experience using CRISPR gene editing technology for generation of stem cell lines expressing gene reporters.

• Experience in live cell imaging microscopy to study hESC/iPSC derived cardiomyocytes and other cardiac lineages.

• Excellent interpersonal skills including tact, diplomacy, and patience in dealing with students, faculty, staff, and corporate/industrial representatives.

• Skill and knowledge of basic computer database and word processing programs.

• Ability in keeping organized, accurate lab records and computer files.

• Knowledge of proper use and maintenance of laboratory equipment.

• Knowledge of lab operations and rules for handling, storing and disposing of noninfectious waste as well as bio hazardous material in tissue culture.

• Skill and knowledge of imaging and analysis software such as ImageJ, Photoshop, Halo, Nikon microscopy processing software.

• Demonstrated effective oral and written communication skills to communicate research results.

• Must be willing to handle and be around hazardous chemicals and materials.
• Must be willing to work with human stem cells.
• Must be able to work various hours and locations based on business needs. Must be willing to work occasional evenings or weekends as required.
• Employment is subject to a criminal background check.
• Employment is subject to pre-employment physical for those who work in clinical settings and/or with patients.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Complies with all policies and standards.
• Complies with the University of California, San Diego Health (UCSDH) Principles of Community.
• This position description is not intended to be a complete list of all responsibilities, duties or skills required for the job and is subject to review and change at any time, with or without notice, in accordance with the needs of the organization.