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 Molecular Genetics Research Project Manager

ABOUT US

The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center (TLI) is Los Angeles County's preeminent independent, not-for-profit biomedical research hub, excelling in transforming scientific breakthroughs into practical therapies. With a $90 million annual budget, TLI is home to over 150 investigators and 500 staff, advancing 600 projects in areas such as Infection and Immunity, Cancer, and Women's Health. Founded in 1952, the Institute continues to train physician-scientists and manage healthcare programs for 60,000 underserved families throughout South Los Angeles.

SUMMARY

The Molecular Genetics Research Project Manager oversees the operational, technical, and administrative functions of a dynamic academic molecular genetics research laboratory and the projects being conducted. This position supports principal investigators, research staff, students, and collaborators by ensuring efficient laboratory operations, regulatory compliance, high-quality research support, and implementation of advanced molecular genetics methodologies. The Research Project Manager plays a key role in maintaining research productivity, supporting grant-funded projects, and fostering a collaborative and academically driven laboratory environment.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assist the Principal Investigators on interdisciplinary research projects through experimental design, assay optimization, troubleshooting, and implementation of new laboratory methodologies and technologies, in cooperation with TLI faculty, institutes and universities such as UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, and research partners.
• Generate and analyze research data to a high scientific standard for the purposes of publishing literature in scientific journals.
• Provide technical expertise and oversight for molecular biochemistry and genetics techniques, including PCR, qPCR, RT-PCR, DNA/RNA extraction, genotyping, cloning, sequencing, CRISPR applications, cell culture, and next-generation sequencing (NGS) workflows.
• Use specialized biochemistry equipment such as bioanalyzers and spectrophotometers to identify phenotypes of samples such as blood biomarkers.
• Manage the day-to-day operations of the molecular genetics research laboratory, including workflow coordination, laboratory organization, and operational planning.
• Maintain compliance with institutional, federal, and regulatory requirements, including biosafety, chemical safety, IRB, IACUC, HIPAA, OSHA, and other applicable research compliance standards.
• Develop, maintain, and update standard operating procedures (SOPs), laboratory protocols, and quality assurance practices.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records, databases, research documentation, and data management systems.
• Oversee laboratory inventory, purchasing, equipment maintenance, vendor coordination, and supply management.
• Supervise and train laboratory personnel, including research associates and laboratory technicians.
• Coordinate laboratory safety training and ensure adherence to safety procedures and best practices.
• Support preparation of grant-funded research projects.
• [REMOVED]
• Participate in laboratory meetings, strategic planning, and continuous improvement initiatives to support the long-term goals of the research program.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support laboratory operations, research program objectives, and institutional needs.

EDUCATION

• Bachelor’s degree in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biomedical Sciences, Biochemistry, or related scientific field.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in an academic, translational, or biomedical research laboratory.
• Demonstrated experience with molecular genetics and molecular biology laboratory techniques.
• Prior laboratory supervisory, training, or project coordination experience.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.
• Proficiency with laboratory information systems, electronic laboratory notebooks, Microsoft Office, and research data management tools.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree or PhD in Genetics, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biomedical Sciences, or related discipline.
• Bachelor’s degree in Genetics, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biomedical Sciences, or related discipline, plus 10+ years of technical experience in related fields.
• Experience supporting NIH- or foundation-funded research programs.
• Experience with NGS platforms, bioinformatics tools, genomic data analysis, and computational biology workflows.
• Experience managing laboratory equipment acquisitions.
• Experience in translational, genomic medicine, or precision medicine research environments.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to work safely in a laboratory environment and comply with all laboratory safety protocols.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and occasionally lift up to 25 pounds.
• Manual dexterity required for laboratory procedures and operation of specialized equipment.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

This position operates within an academic and research laboratory setting involving interaction with biological specimens, laboratory chemicals, and specialized molecular instrumentation. The role requires adherence to institutional safety standards and use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

Please ensure your application is complete and signed; incomplete submissions will not be considered.

Position requires a background check and health clearance

Equal Opportunity Employer/Affirmative Action/Drug-Free Workplace