Senior Scientist

About the role

The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center is an independent, non-profit biomedical research organization located in Torrance, California. Researchers here focus on various diseases including heart and kidney disease, lung disease, skin cancer, sickle cell disease, and more. Projects often involve collaboration across different specialties.

Responsibilities

• Lead advanced research projects on induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) reprogramming and differentiation
• Execute sterile cell culture techniques with strict adherence to quality control and contamination prevention standards
• Support experimental design, data collection, analysis, and documentation
• Operate and maintain advanced research instrumentation, including FACS sorters, 10x Genomics platforms, and Seahorse assays
• Maintain accurate and organized laboratory records, protocols, and inventory
• Train and assist users of the core facility, fostering a collaborative and service-oriented environment
• Communicate effectively with team members, investigators, and facility users regarding project needs, progress, and troubleshooting
• Contribute to general core lab operations, including equipment maintenance and compliance with safety and regulatory guidelines
• Design and perform new experiments, tissue culture and treatments, and cell culture and differentiation
• Organize and place orders related to research materials
• Contribute to data analysis using relevant software

Requirements

• PhD degree in cell or molecular biology
• 1-2 years experience in lab techniques including iPSC cell culture, preferred experience in Sea horse workflows and 10X genomic platforms operations (chromium and visium)
• Hands-on experience with: Human iPSC culture and maintenance, Directed differentiation protocols, Sterile technique in cell culture, Flow cytometry and FACS sorting, Confocal microscopy
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail
• Proven ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills