Research Associate II

About the Position

The incumbent will carry out technical responsibilities specified in federally sponsored grant proposals in the field of radiation and chemotherapy‑induced brain injury. Primary duties include conducting tumor studies in select mouse models, with a major emphasis on orthotopic brain tumor implantation, whether or not accompanied by radio sensitizing nanoparticle conjugates. Essential skills involve stereotactic live‑animal surgery, conformal irradiation procedures, imaging, and the preparation, imaging, and analysis of brain and tumor tissues for immune profiling.

Tasks also encompass tissue blocking, cryostat sectioning, confocal microscopy, flow cytometry, data quantification using in‑house software platforms, behavioral testing with video recording and specialized analysis software, and maintenance of breeding colonies and genotyping of transgenic mice over time. Administrative responsibilities include maintaining accurate research records, performing standard statistical analyses, and general laboratory duties such as reagent preparation, cleaning, and dishware handling.

Flexibility in work schedule is essential, as experiments may require work at abnormal hours or over weekends. The candidate must be willing to work with animals and radiation sources and to travel, potentially up to twice a year. All studies will be conducted in accordance with UCI radiation safety and institutional animal care approval standards.

• Behavioral testing involving rodents
• Familiarity with small animal (mouse) handling
• Laboratory experience using techniques and methods listed above
• Experience working independently and assisting, testing, and standardizing immunohistological techniques
• Experience in tissue handling and cryostat sectioning
• Experience with confocal and fluorescent microscopy to assess neural stem/precursor cell populations
• Experience with routine statistical, data‑plotting programs
• Basic laboratory procedures and practices experience

• Radiobiology background

In addition to the salary range listed, the position offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical insurance, sick and vacation time, retirement savings plans, and access to various discounts and perks. For more information, visit the compensation and benefits resources.

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories covered by the UC Anti‑Discrimination Policy. We are committed to attracting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities.

For more information, contact Human Resources at 949‑824‑0500 or eec.