Research Associate II

Job Overview

Title
:
Staff Research Associate II (Job )

Department
:
Cellular & Molecular Medicine

Appointment Type
:
Career, 100%

Union
: RX Contract

Number of Openings
: 1

Work Schedule
:
Days, 8 hrs/day, Monday-Friday

Worksite
:
La Jolla

Hourly Pay Range
: $30.32 - $48.78

Filing Deadline
:
Fri 1/23/2026

UCSD Health Sciences is a $1 billion+ organization encompassing 17 academic departments. The Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine (CMM) is one of two basic science units in the School of Medicine where world‑class researchers study fundamental cellular processes and pathways using a variety of techniques from classical genetics and fluorescence microscopy to high throughput genomics, systems biology, and crystallography. The belief is that fundamental principles that underlie eukaryotic cell functions can be decoupled, simulated, and used to develop new therapeutics and diagnostics.

The Staff Research Associate will work within the UC San Diego HUMANOID CoRE (humanoid.ucsd.edu) to build disease models for testing therapeutics using adult human stem cells, primary cells, and pluripotent stem cells (hESCs/hiPSCs) with microscopes, flow cytometers, plate‑readers, microfluidics, and robotics.

• Independently perform standard laboratory procedures with adult human stem cells and primary cells, human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs), including embryonic stem cells (hESCs) and induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs), and other experimental procedures.
• Use microscopes, high‑content imaging, plate‑readers, flow cytometers, cell fractionators, isolators, microfluidic chambers, and available robotics to assay effects of small molecules on stem cells and organoids.
• Perform standard experimental protocols in tissue culture to meet research project needs, providing ideas and rationale to improve unsatisfactory tests.
• Perform general lab duties including ordering supplies and equipment repair.
• Edit and maintain the database of human tissue and organoids in the HUMANOID biorepository.
• Maintain up‑to‑date clinic IRB documentation (Consent forms and IRB protocols).
• Serve as runner to secure patient‑derived tissues from clinics and transport them to the HUMANOID core for organoid isolation.
• Produce conditioned base media for lab and customer use.
• Perform QC of all new cell lines and media batches and keep records.
• Use Word, Excel, and PowerPoint for documentation and report preparation.

• Theoretical knowledge of molecular and cellular biology or closely related field; typically acquired at collegiate level or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Working knowledge of DNA techniques.
• Lab experience and understanding of sterile techniques and mammalian cell culture practices.
• Knowledge and experience with laboratory equipment for use, maintenance, and repair.
• Ability to learn new laboratory procedures quickly.
• Ability to prepare solutions.
• Strong organization skills, attention to detail, self‑motivation, and ability to handle rapidly changing priorities.
• Knowledge of various computer software, hardware, standard office equipment, and lab equipment.
• Experience performing repetitive and specialized laboratory experimental procedures and following protocols.
• Ability to care for small lab animals and work with animal and human tissue.
• Ability to use mathematical skills to analyze and develop statistical data.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, able to interact professionally with faculty, researchers, students, and others.
• Experience using microscopy in experiments.
• Experience with immunofluorescent labeling, microscopy, other plate‑based assays, and small‑molecule library screens.

• Knowledge of UCSD Environmental Health and Safety requirements, radiation safety, and biosafety techniques and practices.
• Adult and pluripotent stem cell culture experience.

• Employment subject to criminal background check.
• Occasional evenings and weekends may be required.
• Work in environment where biological (including infectious agents and blood‑borne pathogens) and chemical hazards are present.
• Work with human samples and stem‑cell based tools/techniques.
• Must be willing to drive or access public transportation as needed.

UC San Diego Health maintains a marijuana and drug‑free environment. Employees may be subject to drug screening.

If employed by the University of California, you will be required to comply with our Policy on Vaccination Programs, which may be amended or revised from time to time. Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements.

Annual Full Pay Range: $63,308 - $101,853 (prorated if appointment