Lab Assistant I - 139775

About the role

The UCSD Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine (CMM) seeks a Lab Assistant I to assist with DNA and RNA extraction, library preparation for single-molecule sequencing, bulk sequencing for whole-genome, whole-exome, and targeted panel projects, as well as transcriptome sequencing. The Lab Assistant will also perform PCR and qPCR procedures, maintain detailed data records, and develop basic programming scripts, all under close supervision.

Responsibilities

• Assist, under close supervision, with DNA and RNA extraction, library preparation for single-molecule sequencing, bulk sequencing for whole-genome, whole-exome, and targeted panel projects, as well as transcriptome sequencing.
• Perform PCR and qPCR procedures.
• Maintain detailed data records.
• Develop basic programming scripts, under close supervision.
• Perform various laboratory and tissue culture facility maintenance duties (including order, store and dispense a variety of supplies; maintain equipment, assist in the operation of laboratory equipment, and general clean-up).
• Assist supervisor and laboratory members with special experiments and various technical assignments, as necessary.
• Interact effectively with faculty, postdoctoral scholars, students, and research technicians in a laboratory.

Requirements

• Graduation from high school or a General Education Diploma and one year of laboratory experience or two years of college including courses in chemistry, biochemistry or biology; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Ability to follow basic research protocols and follow instructions closely.
• Ability to work independently and cooperatively.
• Ability to effectively communicate with colleagues and superiors, with demonstrated skill in asking questions and advising of problems, via effective use of email, public/shared Google docs, and/or meeting schedules.
• Demonstrated computer skills (including MS Office programs), with experience updating databases by manipulating xls or doc files.
• Knowledge and understanding of laboratory safety and ability to work carefully with potentially harmful agents.
• Knowledge or experience with preparing primary cultures and maintaining cell lines.
• Knowledge of basic laboratory procedures and equipment, including preparation of buffers.
• Experience with DNA and RNA extractions and library preparations for bulk and single-molecule sequencing.
• Ability to communicate with colleagues and superiors, including asking questions and notification of problems. Ability to work well with others.
• Ability to work independently and cooperatively.
• Attention to protocols and details.
• Ability to follow basic research protocols and follow instructions closely.
• Ability to maintain careful, legible and well-organized laboratory notes.
• Knowledge of Histology to examine stained tissue slides.
• Knowledge of microscopy work including Nanozoomer Slide Scanner training.
• Knowledge and experience in animal room work including tissue extraction, surgery, and injections.
• Knowledge or experience with routine PCR genotyping procedure and qRT-PCR.

Preferred Qualifications

• Basic knowledge of programming languages and willingness to learn novel programming languages to assist in developing of simple programming scripts.
• Understanding of UC ordering procedures.