DESCRIPTION

Under general supervision, the Staff Research Associate will be responsible for undertaking research projects in collaboration with the Principal Investigator (PI) in making innovative contributions pertaining to research and experiments.

The Staff Research Associate will carry out independent research on T cell homeostasis, memory T cell formation, and survival in the mouse. Incumbent will independently operate, manage and provide training for the lab in-flow cytometry and cell sorting capabilities for various PIs within the School of Biological Sciences; run fluorescence-activated cell sort (FACS) and in-vitro assays in the evaluation and analysis of T cell responses; and supervise antibody production, maintenance, and propagation of selected mouse lines based on genotype determination. Generate T cells with various mutations via gene editing and study T cell function in response to infection or tumors.

Additionally, the incumbent will independently generate data, analyze results, and present results at lab meetings. Participate in writing and publishing manuscripts in international journals. This position is also responsible for organizing and maintaining the lab, monitoring lab expenditures, and serving as lab radiation safety coordinator. The incumbent will train and manage undergraduate, graduate, and other laboratory staff, and assist others in their experiments. May also perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Strong theoretical and practical knowledge of biochemistry, molecular biology, immunology and genetics, including relevant laboratory techniques, acquired through a BS in Biology or related field OR an equivalent combination of education and laboratory experience. MS or PhD in related field preferred.

• Strong experience working with T cells both in vivo and in vitro. Experience with T cell homeostasis and memory Tcell formation. Essential experience with tissue isolation and T cell preparation from a range of tissues.

• Experience operating fluorescence-activated cell sorters (FACS) and conducting physiochemical techniques such as gel filtration, polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE), sodium dodecylsuface-PAGE, isoelectric focusing, affinity chromatography, radioimmunoassay, and immunoprecipitation.

• Proven experience using a FACSAria and LSRII/Fortessa for analysis and cell sorting of lymphocyte populations.

• Demonstrated experience working with infectious agents of BL2/BL2+ using in vivo models.

• Experience independently participating in the execution of research projects or portions of such projects, independently planning, organizing and performing experiments and selecting data for analysis. Experience with preparing figures for presentation.

• Experience with sectioning, processing, and analyzing histological samples by confocal microscopy.

• Demonstrated experience in sterile technique for the propagation of prokaryotic and mammalian cells.

• Extensive knowledge of specialized scientific terminology relating to topics of molecular biology, cell biology and animal physiology.

• Experience working with mice as research model system, including experience genotyping, maintaining mouse lines, and performing surgery and dissection.

• Proven ability to utilize scientific literature and apply to a research project. Experience conducting scientific literature searches, including online databases and other resources.

• Ability to develop, follow and troubleshoot established lab protocols and lab procedures with direction from PI. Ability to make important original contributions pertaining to laboratory and/or field experimental procedures.

• Demonstrated experience preparing and editing scientific papers, manuscripts, and lab data. Experience presenting research to formal audience.

• Excellent organizational skills including the ability to keep clear and accurate records, organize a varied workload, follow written and oral protocols and give oral presentations on the progress of research in lab meetings. Proven ability to prioritize and schedule experiments and duties to maximize efficiency.

• Effective interpersonal communication skills to interact well with others to facilitate communication about lab requirements including the ability to discuss and understand day-to-day laboratory affairs, research plans, results and ideas with PI and other lab personnel in a constructive, professional and pleasant manner.

• Familiarity with Apple and PC computers and associated word processing and spreadsheet software with awillingness and ability to update and increase skills and knowledge as needed.

• Demonstrated ability to hire and manage undergraduate and graduate researchers, and other laboratory staff. Skill to train others in various lab techniques and procedures (safety precautions, preparation of media, dishwashing, equipment usage. laboratory maintenance, etc.).

• 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 and knowledge of proper handling, storage and disposal of chemicals, biochemicals, hazardouschemicals, and biohazardous materials including radioactive materials.

• Ability to maintain confidentiality in matters related to work.

• Strong demonstrated experienced with standard lab equipment found in contemporary biology lab.

• Knowledge of laws and regulations that govern the housing and management of laboratory animals as applied to the University of California. Sensitivity to the needs of caged laboratory animals in compliance with AAALAC standards.

• Skill and knowledge to proactively maintain an organized lab and stocks of essential supplies and media,purchase new equipment, and ensure lab equipment is operating effectively.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

• Must be willing to work with mice and be comfortable with the use of mice as experimental animals.

• Must be willing and able to work safely with BL2-level viral and bacterial preparations.

• Must be willing and able to work safely with radioactive materials.

• Flexible work schedule required. Willingness and ability to work occasional evenings and/or weekends as required by the needs of the research project(s).

• Must be able to work on feet all day and willing and able to safely lift mouse cages.

• The job offer is contingent upon satisfactory clearance based on Background Check results.