Graduate Research Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

UCSD Health Sciences is a $1 billion dollar plus organization encompassing 16 academic departments (14 clinical, 2 basic sciences), 2 pre-academic/hospital departments, 2 professional schools (School of Medicine and Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences), 2 hospitals, and various other programs and units all dedicated towards fulfilling the Health Sciences missions. The UCSD Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine (CMM) is one of two basic science units in the School of Medicine where world-class researchers study fundamental cellular processes and pathways using a variety of techniques from classical genetics and fluorescence microscopy to high-throughput genomics, systems biology, and crystallography. Our 36 faculty and over 200 postdoctoral scholars, graduate students, and research staff work on the cutting edge of biology, cutting across fields from basic biochemistry and genetics to genomics, systems biology and stem cell biology. The faculty also 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.

The diverse mix of ages, backgrounds, and talents creates a robust work environment withchallenging career opportunities and a commitment to continued growth potential. We constantly seek to recruit highly motivated, technologically-advanced, and deeply interested individuals who are ready to become a part of our dynamic research and educational environment.

The multi-disciplinary lab within the Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine explores the roles of RNA biology in regenerative medicine and immune system regulation in cancer and host-pathogen interactions. Projects in the lab use cell culture, animal models, stem cells, human pluripotent cells and several molecular tools to investigate fundamental mechanisms of cancer, AIDS, brain, and immune disorders.

Under general supervision, the Research Associate will independently plan, organize, perform, and modify experiments and protocols. Laboratory experiments include yeast genetics, CRISPR gene editing in yeast, measurements of genome rearrangements and mutations, whole genome sequencing of yeast, cell biology experiments, data generation and analyses, preparation of reports and presentations. Future experiments in various cell lines and animal models include the effect of various drugs on cell growth, single cell RNA-Seq, ATAC-Seq, CRISPR gene editing and other analysis related to studying genome instability.

Helps manage the lab by providing leadership to students, Postdocs, and lower-level SRAs. Helps ensure lab safety and maintenance of lab equipment. Performs other duties as assigned.

• Theoretical and practical knowledge of life science such as biology, molecular biology, and biochemistry including relevant laboratory techniques as typically acquired through an advanced degree, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Experience performing high level experimental and data analyses tasks.

• Skill in and knowledge of operating and maintaining a variety of lab equipment.

• Experience in maintaining well-organized lab and thorough records. Advanced math and computer skills.

• Demonstrated superior oral and written communication skills to communicate research results and carry out collaborative projects.

• Ability to work under supervision and independently on projects with a variety of personalities.

• Good work habits, including ability to comply with attendance policies, reliability in research and in interactions with peers, supervisors, and subordinates.

• Demonstrated ability to set priorities and to organize a varied workload to meet deadlines despite frequent interruptions.

• Strong computer knowledge: Proficiency with Windows programs and knowledge of library usage with the willingness and ability to learn new hardware/software as required.

• Knowledge of Cal-OSHA & UCSD EH&S safety requirements including MSDS's, hazard communication & Injury and Illness Prevention Program; laboratory safety precautions including appropriate clothing and shoes, use of protective items such as gloves and goggles as well as basic first aid procedures.

• Ability to manage multiple projects, tasks and priorities to achieve desired goals.

• Experience in conducting molecular genetics experiments such as PCR, RNA, DNA assays including whole genome DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing of yeast (S. cerevisiae).

• Ability to use relevant computer software programs to organize and analyze data.

• Skill and knowledge in maintaining yeast genetics and cell culture facilities.

• Experience receiving and processing new samples of different cell lineages using standard repetitive protocols.

• Experience independently planning, organizing, and modifying experiments and protocols.

• Experience writing grant applications.

• Skill and knowledge in conducting specialized tests and research experiments in the areas of yeast genetics, genomics and molecular biology.

• Demonstrated experience in preparing complex solutions, culture media and reagents.

• Job offer is contingent upon satisfactory clearance based on Background Check results.
• Occasional evenings and weekends may be required.
• Must be willing to work with hazardous materials.