Research Associate- PATHOLOGY

Staff Research Associate – Pathology (SRA
1)

Position:
Responsible for assisting in cell and molecular biology experiments focused on breast cancer biology and extracellular vesicles. Work under the supervision of the PI. Tasks include cell culture, purifications, molecular cloning, protein assays, qPCR, data analysis, equipment maintenance, and supply ordering.

Assist with experiments addressing scientific questions related to breast cancer biology and extracellular vesicles, including in vitro cell culture of human breast cancer cells, purification of extracellular vesicles, isolation of primary cells from human tissues, molecular cloning, protein quantification, western blotting, DNA/RNA extraction, and qPCR, among others. Prepare media, buffers, and solutions as required. Assist with data processing and statistical analysis.

Provide routine laboratory equipment maintenance, order and maintain lab supplies and equipment. Participate in large group meetings and project-oriented meetings, present collected data and published works.

• Theoretical knowledge of molecular, cellular, biological and genetics concepts through a Bachelor’s degree in biology or a related field, and/or relevant lab experience.
• Demonstrated experience in sterile technique, cell, and tissue culture work.
• Ability and willingness to handle and work with human tissues and other biohazardous, toxic, and carcinogenic materials, knowledge of radiation safety and biosafety techniques, and ability to follow Safety and Biohazardous Material Guidelines.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, ability to interact professionally with diverse populations.
• Experience with personal computer and software applications, such as Microsoft Office; basic knowledge of R or Python preferred.
• Strong written English skills, ability to compose, edit, and publish professional correspondence and research procedures.
• Experience operating and maintaining laboratory equipment such as centrifuges, spectrophotometers, balances, pH meters, autoclaves, and electrophoresis equipment.
• Organizational skills to order and maintain reagents, supplies, and maintain accurate lab records and computer files.
• Willingness to learn new theory, techniques, protocols and tasks.
• Experience with DNA, RNA and protein assays.

• Experience with UCSD ordering, EH&S, and facilities policies and business systems.
• Experience working with animal and human tissues; tissue trimming and histology analysis, and knowledge in necropsy.
• Ability to independently design experiments to address specific scientific questions with appropriate controls and variables.
• Experience making decisions, analyzing situations, problem solving, and initiating action for laboratory maintenance.
• Master of Science degree.

• Employment is subject to a criminal background check.
• Must be willing to work with animal/human tissues and mouse models.
• Must be willing to work with hazardous materials.
• Must have prior experience working in a lab conducting research related to extracellular vesicles.

Annual Full Pay Range: $62,891 – $75,022 (prorated for less than 100% appointment). Hourly Equivalent: $30.12 – $35.93. Compensation is determined by experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure, certifications, and other business needs.

If employed by the University of California, you will be required to comply with our Policy on Vaccination Programs. Certain life‑support certifications (BLS, NRP, ACLS) require hands‑on practice and in‑person skills assessment; online‑only certification is not acceptable.

Misconduct Disclosure Requirement:
As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts an offer of employment will be required to disclose any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining misconduct, and any appeal of a finding of substantiated misconduct.

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 status under state or federal law.