DESCRIPTION

Department of Pediatrics is one of the largest departments within the UCSD School of Medicine with comprehensive clinical programs, extensive basic science and clinical research, and diverse educational opportunities for students, residents and fellows. The internationally renowned faculty 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. More than one hundred trainees at the graduate student and postdoctoral level, as well as more than 300 professional, research and administrative staff who along with the department administrators interact closely with the faculty. The diverse mix of ages, backgrounds, and talents creates a robust work environment with challenging career opportunities and a commitment to continued growth potential. We constantly seek to recruit highly motivated, technologically-advanced and interested individuals to become a part of our dynamic cutting-edge research, clinical, and educational environment.

Under supervision, the incumbent will assist in research in a stem cell biology/diabetes research laboratory and perform routine molecular biology techniques (eg., cloning, PCR and RT-PCR, DNA purification, CRISPR colonies genotyping, ELISA and luciferase assays for insulin detection) and laboratory procedures using human embryonic stems cells (hESCs) including culture and differentiation, fluorescent activated cell sorting, transfection, and viral transduction. Incumbent will also perform general lab duties including ordering supplies and equipment repair.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Theoretical knowledge of molecular and cellular biology molecular biology, or closely related fields.

• Skill, knowledge, and ability to perform standard and routine laboratory techniques such as, but not limited to, biochemical assays, DNA and RNA extraction and quantification, genotyping, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), sequencing, and mutation screening.

• Knowledge of or experience differentiating human embryonic stem cells, specifically into pancreatic cells.

• Knowledge of lab operations and rules for handling, storing and disposing of noninfectious waste as well as bio hazardous material.

• Skill and knowledge of computer basic data base and word processing programs.

• Knowledge of proper use and maintenance of laboratory equipment.

• Ability in keeping organized, accurate lab records and computer files.

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

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

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience using lentiviral platforms for generation of stable cell lines for overexpression and knockdown using shRNA and CRISPR technology.
• Experience in differentiating human embryonic stem cells, specifically into pancreatic cells.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

• Employment is subject to a criminal background check.
• Must be willing to handle and be around hazardous chemicals and materials.
• Must be willing to work occasional evenings or weekends as required.
• Must be willing to work on human embryonic stem cells.
• Must be willing to work with viruses that are infectious to humans, including adeno-associated viruses and lentiviral vectors.