DESCRIPTION

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, fellows and postdocs and 480 staff personnel. Lab assistant position in the group of Prof. Miguel Lopez-Ramirez at UCSD in the School of Medicine. Dr. Lopez-Ramirez’s lab focuses on understanding the molecular and cellular mechanism implicated in the physiopathology of cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs). We use integrated approaches including mouse models and primary culture strategies with biochemistry, histology, bioinformatics and molecular biology techniques to characterize brain vascular malformation onset and worsening associated to loss of brain endothelial CCMs genes. Our goal is to identify non-invasive, safe, and effective therapies to prevent or ameliorate CCM disease.

The main focus of the project will be on gene expression analysis in cerebral cavernous malformations during brain hemorrhages and thrombosis. Under supervision, the incumbent will work as an assistant in a lab studying cell signaling pathways in the vasculature and brain cells. The incumbent will provide a variety of functions in support of the research lab. This includes, but is not limited to: Assist with PCR and DNA media preparation, maintaining mouse colonies, animal behavior tests, transporting and housing animals from vivarium to laboratory, keeping detailed records of experimental preparations, maintaining strict laboratory cleanliness, and adhering to EH&S guidelines for chemical storage. Exposure/Experience in molecular and cellular biology, histology, microscopy, and animal husbandry are highly preferred.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Graduation from high school or a General Education Diploma and one (1) year of laboratory experience or two (2) years of college including courses in the natural, physical or social sciences; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Familiarity with assisting in procedures such as sterile techniques, DNA and RNA preparation, tissue culture, PCR amplification.

• Familiarity with handling and preparation of mouse tissues.

• Familiarity with histology and confocal microscopy.

• Experience, measuring and weighing chemicals, preparing solutions and serial dilutions; and knowledge and ability to prepare a variety of reagents, media, and buffers.

• Experience with and understanding of basic laboratory equipment.

• Skill and knowledge to maintain an organized lab, stocks and orders of essential supplies and reagents, and to ensure lab equipment is running efficiently.

• Prior experience and knowledge of proper handling, storage and disposal of hazardous materials.

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

• Proficient with Windows OS, with an ability to work with a variety of computer applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Photoshop) and with ability to increase skills and knowledge as needed.

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

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Familiarity with experimental procedures in a rat and mouse genetic and pharmacological laboratory, and experience with the breeding and weaning of animals.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

• Employment is subject to a criminal background check.
• Must be willing to handle and work with biohazard material.
• Must be willing to work with small animals.
• Occasional evenings and weekends may be required.