Laboratory Research Assistant - Cancer Center

Laboratory Research Assistant
- Cancer Center

The Moores Cancer Center (MCC) is one of just 57 NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers in the United States and the only one in San Diego County. MCC's mission is to transform cancer care in our catchment area and beyond by driving exceptional scientific discoveries and innovations in prevention, detection, care, and training. MCC will make a global impact on improving health by reducing cancer burden through accelerated discovery and translation, compassionate and interdisciplinary care, education and community engagement, with the foundation of our core values
- Excellence, Innovation and Risk-Taking, Collaboration, Diversity and Service.

The pancreatic cancer program at Moores Comprehensive Cancer Center at UC San Diego has several projects that investigate specific aspects of pancreatic cancer biology and focus on developing new, more effective therapies and on driving early detection of the disease. Under supervision, the Laboratory Research Assistant (SRA1) will support pancreatic cancer research by assisting with processing patient blood samples to isolate DNA for long-read sequencing and PBMCs for immunological and biological analyses.

Contribute to recombinant DNA work and genome engineering. Will assist with a variety of cell culture techniques, including flow cytometry for cell surface protein expression, cell propagation, contaminant testing, and cryopreservation. Assist with mouse colony management and genotyping using established PCR techniques. Work with small animals and assist with procedures such as surgery, pancreatic orthotopic injections, ultrasound imaging, and pregnancy and tumor monitoring.

Assist with immunohistochemistry of frozen and fixed tissues or cells. Assist with protein biochemistry techniques, including protein quantification, SDS PAGE, immunoprecipitation, and Western blotting. Maintain and prepare accurate records of all experiments. Assist in the preparation of data for publication. Other duties assigned as needed.

Under supervision, the SRA1 will also support clinical studies including the Pancreatic Cancer Early Detection (PRECEDE) consortium study and other studies relevant to pancreatic cancer, pancreatic cysts, and early detection as needed. The SRA1 will assist the clinical research team with collecting and entering research data, updating study records, sample acquisition and downstream processing, and maintenance of accurate and complete research files.

With appropriate experience and training the SRA1 may also assist with recruiting and consenting study participants. Other duties assigned as needed.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Theoretical knowledge of molecular biology, immunology, cell biology, and/or biochemistry.
• Ability to perform blood sample preparations including centrifugation, pipetting, making various buffer solutions, and proper sample storage. Ability to use biosafety cabinet, ULT/LN freezers, and centrifuge.
• Ability and willingness to handle and work with small animals. Ability to perform mouse genotyping using DNA isolation, PCR-based methods and agarose gel electrophoresis, and basic molecular biology experiments. Ability to assist in performing mouse surgeries, experiments, and injections.
• Ability to perform basic DNA and protein characterization techniques using electrophoretic analysis, quantification using plate-based analysis, and immunoblot-based analysis.
• Ability to work with clinical research protocols to interact with participants and consent
• Strong communication skills (both verbal and written) needed to interact professionally and effectively in the work environment, as well as to effectively and accurately document research procedures. Ability to read, comprehend and discuss research materials.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality. Organizational skills to order and maintain lab equipment and supplies.
• Basic understanding of computer applications such as Word, Excel and PowerPoint. Internet search and software analysis capabilities are preferred.
• Good organizational skills and ability to prioritize work.
• Enthusiasm for learning and a genuine interest in scientific research. Willingness and ability to learn new skills, research methods, and scientific principles.
• Familiarity with basic laboratory equipment such as centrifuges, spectrophotometers, balances, pH meters, autoclaves and electrophoresis equipment.
• Ability to adhere to established UCSD guidelines for safety and environmental issues.
• Familiar in proper handling of chemical and biohazard materials. Familiarity with sterile techniques.
• Detail-oriented. Ability to work with little supervision. Ability to follow verbal and/or written instructions. Ability to follow-up on previously begun procedures. Ability to accurately record data and enter into appropriate medium.

Special Conditions:

• Employment is subject to a criminal background check and pre-employment physical.
• Must be able to work various hours and locations based on business needs.
• Must be willing…