Research Assistant/Lab Coordinator
Company: Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute
Location: San Diego
Posted on: January 27, 2023
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Job Description:
Summary:Reporting to the principal investigator (PI), the
incumbent will independently be responsible for overseeing lab
operations in a lab dedicated to the study of genetic and
epigenetic mechanisms causative to the development of childhood
cancers, with the goal of identifying new drug targets and
improving treatment options.Individual will assist with ordering,
maintaining budgets, writing protocols, ensuring compliance with
animal and safety regulations, and supervising undergraduate
research assistants. They will work directly with graduate students
and postdoctoral researchers in support of ongoing research
projects. Qualified individuals will also have the opportunity to
carry out independent research projects.Duties and
Responsibilities:Molecular Biology and Cell/ Tissue Culture Time
45%A. Independently perform studies under the general guidance of
the PI. Projects will require theoretical knowledge of molecular
biology techniques.B. Grow and maintain mammalian cell lines under
sterile conditions.C. Perform DNA transfections and genome editing
experiments, generate stable cell lines by antibiotic selection and
subcloning.D. Extract nucleic acids and protein, gel
electrophoresis and immunoblotting. Independently perform DNA
cloning, plasmid mini and maxi prep, DNA gel purification.E. Design
and perform PCR and quantitative real-time PCR experiments and
associated data analysis.F. Design and execute chromatin
immunoprecipitation experiments using an automated liquid
handler.Lab Management Time 30%A. Serve as laboratory coordinator
and oversee the work in the laboratory, including the coordination
of equipment by staff members and providing work direction to other
research associates and students in the laboratory.B. Train
students, lower-level staff, postdoctoral fellows and graduate
students on different experiment techniques and processes used in
the lab.C. Oversee and coordinate equipment selection, purchase and
installation, negotiating and initiating maintenance contracts and
repairs. Maintain relationships with vendors and perform price
negotiations.D. Keep inventory and order supplies and reagents.
Monitor lab expenditures/grant spending.E. Maintain and update
Biohazard Use Authorizations and Controlled Substance Use
Authorizations.F. Serve as contact for construction and maintenance
of facilities issues for lab areas. Work with facilities management
to problem solve and find solutions for ongoing facilities issues,
maintenance and space requirements.G. Ensure laboratories are clean
and in good working order. Ensure a pleasant working environment in
the lab and provide assistance to other lab members.Sample and
Protocol Managemengt, Scientific Development Time 15%A.
Independently coordinate sample shipments, receive and inventory
cell, tissue and nucleic acid samples.B. Develop and maintain
database of received samples and processes performed.C. In
collaboration with lab members, write and maintain electronic
library of commonly used laboratory protocols, plasmids and
enzymes.D. Independently stay up-to-date on current literature and
novel methods, contribute to experiment planning and protocol
development.Lab Safety Officer Time 10%A. Serve as lab safety
officer to ensure that safe work practices are followed as per
EH&S guidelines, including handling of chemical and
biohazardous materials.B. Ensure compliance with lab, department,
University, State, and Federal safety-related mandates and
guidelines.C. Maintain and update all EH&S required safety
documents (LHAT, Exposure Control Plan, CHUA)D. Oversee and
document that all lab members receive proper training courses
relevant to biosafety and new research techniques. Maintain
accurate training records for all personnel in lab.E. Preside over
and organize inspections of laboratory.F. Responsible for hazardous
waste disposal.Education and/or Experience:Bachelors degree in
biological sciences and at least 2 years of experience in a
biomedical research lab are required. For candidates with a Masters
degree, at least 1 year of lab experience is required.Background in
neuroscience, developmental biology and/or cancer biology is
helpful. Experience working with research animals, especially small
animal surgery, is highly desired.Must have professional-level
experience with Microsoft Office and the ability to learn
department-specific programs and equipment as needed.Successful
candidates will have a professional demeanor, strong analytical and
organizational skills, excellent verbal and written communication
skills, and the ability to interact effectively with individuals
from various cultures and backgrounds.Other Knowledge, Skills
and/or Abilities:A. Theoretical knowledge of molecular biology or a
Bachelor's of Science degree in an appropriated field of science or
technology or equivalent in education and experience.B.
Demonstrated experience in molecular biology techniques, including
most of the following: recombinant DNA cloning, DNA and RNA
purification, RT-PCR, PCR, chromatin immunoprecipitation,
electrophoresis, Western blotting. Demonstrated ability to
calculate and prepare solutions and dilutions.C. Proficiency in
aseptic tissue culture technique. Demonstrated ability to maintain,
pass, transfect, treat and preserve mammalian cell lines under
sterile conditions. Understanding of cell growth and
differentiation, media requirements, and contamination issues.D.
Knowledge of personal computers and software to include experience
with MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and Adobe CS (Photoshop,
Illustrator, Acrobat)E. Demonstrated experience in general
laboratory housekeeping procedures including maintaining inventory
and equipment, ordering supplies, preparing solutions, maintaining
a clean and safe laboratory environment.Supervisory
Responsibilities:Leads and trains other laboratory staff in
procedures required.COMPENSATION:The expected hiring range for this
position is $16.30 - $26.45/hour, commensurate with experience.
Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute is an Equal
Opportunity Employer - M/F/Veteran/Disability - committed to the
hiring, advancement and fair treatment of all individuals.
Keywords: Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, San Diego , Research Assistant/Lab Coordinator, Other , San Diego, California
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