DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW

The School of Biological Sciences is a large and complex school within Academic Affairs and is overseen by the Dean of Biological Sciences with the assistance of Associate and Assistant Deans. BioSci has four academic departments, Cell and Developmental Biology, Ecology Behavior and Evolution, Molecular Biology and Neurobiology with a Shared Services Administration unit supporting the the Dean, the School, and the four departments. Each department is headed by a Chair who works individually to represent their section, and works collaboratively as a member of the Council of Chairs (COC) on School concerns which cross the boundaries of section governance. BioSci reflects broad foci in faculty research and in the academic programs offered by the School. The School has over 110 faculty FTE, ~50 professional researchers, ~150 postdoctoral scholars, ~55 adjuncts, ~20 Unit 18s, ~145 staff in career/casual titles, and ~425 student workers and volunteers and involves members of ~9 bargaining units. There are approximately ~5,500 undergraduate students enrolled in 8 majors, with annual enrollments of ~32,000 students; ~350 graduate students with annual enrollments of ~2,400; more than $34 million per annum in extramural funding, and approximately ~$65 million in total annual expenditures. The School occupies space in 10 buildings, totaling 302,000 SF, including class laboratories and instructional support space, research labs, and recharge facilities.

Our mission is to advance knowledge of basic biological sciences and apply our research discoveries in ways that improve human health, protect our environment and enrich our economy. We fulfill our mission every day by educating and preparing the next generation of scientists, physicians, medical researchers and educators for 21st century careers, and by increasing public understanding of biology and encouraging scientific discovery among K12 teachers and school children.

To learn more about this vibrant center of scientific discovery refer to the school’s webpage at www.biology.ucsd.edu.

POSITION OVERVIEW

Under supervision, the incumbent will assist the Principal Investigator and other senior researchers in carrying out standard and repetitive research experiments to study the innate immune system of the roundworm, C. elegans defense against infection, examining the genetics and cell biology of defense against different pathogens. This position will involve organizing and maintaining databases of laboratory reagents, such as strains, constructs and primers. Research involves preparing viral samples and performing viral infections. Conduct standard research techniques, including prepping microsporidia samples, performing qRT-PCR, microsporidia infections and FISH staining, thermotolerance assays, and testing pharmacological inhibition of the lysosome. The incumbent will assist in laboratory management including acting as the EH&S liaison, ordering and tracking supplies, maintaining common lab equipment, and ensuring lab is clean, safe, and in compliance with regulations. Position will also involve overseeing undergraduate lab helpers and assistants, as well as overseeing lab safety and other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Theoretical knowledge of microbiology, molecular biology, or cellular biology, acquired through a Bachelor's degree in Biology or related field and/or equivalent combination of education and laboratory experience.

• Experience with laboratory equipment, including centrifuges, bioguard hood, microscopes, freezers, pipettes, autoclave, balances, incubators.

• Demonstrated experience in the preparation of scientific reagents.

• Ability to evaluate and communicate scientific data and present information clearly and concisely. Ability to assist in preparation of detailed and accurate scientific reports.

• Excellent organizational and administrative skills. Skill to set up and maintain computerized and hard copy inventories and record keeping systems.

• Mathematical computation skills and ability to maintain data accurately.

• Computer skills including word processing, graphics application with a willingness and ability to update and increase skills and knowledge as needed.

• Knowledge of sterile techniques for bacterial culture.

• Demonstrated successful, positive interpersonal and oral and written communication skills using tact, diplomacy, discretion, and flexibility with diverse personalities and situations. Skill to work as part of a research team. Skill to interact effectively with faculty, academicians, students, and staff including those of diverse ethnicity, culture, and foreign nationals.

• Demonstrated ability to direct the work of both casual workers and other support staff. Skill to train others in basic lab support techniques and procedures (preparation of media, dishwashing, equipment usage, safety, collaborative maintenance etc.).

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

• Knowledge of purchasing and reimbursement procedures. Skill in maintaining steady levels of lab supplies, maintaining purchasing records, and training others in purchasing procedures.

• Willingness to work with BSL2 pathogens.

• Knowledge/understanding and at least some experience with Safety Data Sheets, hazard communication and Injury and Illness Prevention Program. Familiarity with a Chemical Hygiene Plan addressing safety precautions including appropriate clothing and shoes, safe handling of chemicals, use of protective items. Willingness and ability to keep safety training current and consistent with research involvement.

• Experience working with bacteria.

• Experience with immunostaining and protein gels.

• Experience working with C. elegans and/or other nematodes.

• Demonstrated ability to perform standard techniques with molecular cloning, transformation, and general protein techniques.

• Willingness and demonstrated ability to embrace and consistently uphold the principles of community for a collaborative work environment.

• Knowledge and ability to perform standard experimental techniques such as DNA cloning, gel electrophoresis, Western Blotting, Southern blotting, DNA/RNA purification, expression and purification of proteins, recombinant DNA, PCR, plasmid preps, histology, and genotyping.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

• Job offer is contingent upon satisfactory clearance based on background check results.

• Must be flexible and willing to work occasional overtime (evening and weekend) as required by particular experiments.