HIV Research Technician - Medicine - 141992

UC San Diego; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 63,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

UC San Diego’s Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health seeks a dedicated technician to perform routine molecular biology tasks, process clinical samples, and support research on HIV and infectious diseases. The role emphasizes careful record-keeping, quality control, and collaboration across multidisciplinary teams.

The position requires knowledge of sterile technique, proficiency with common lab equipment, and flexibility to work with samples from diverse sources.

Qualifications

• Theoretical knowledge of biology, molecular biology, or related fields.
• Clear communication and ability to maintain organized, accurate lab records and notebooks.
• Experience using MS Word and Excel.
• Enthusiasm for learning and ability to adapt to new methods and collaborate with diverse teams.
• Knowledge of sterile culture and aseptic techniques, including buffers and reagents.
• Familiarity with lab equipment such as pipettors, PCR machines, incubators, centrifuges, and plate readers.

Responsibilities

• Perform HIV viral load assays, DNA/RNA extraction and purification, cDNA synthesis, PCR, gel electrophoresis, and sequencing.
• Process human blood and clinical samples from HIV-infected donors.
• Maintain accurate lab notebooks and inventory of specimens; manage solutions and supplies; maintain a clean, safe lab area.

Skills

Biology basics

Lab record keeping

MS Word & Excel

Willingness to learn

Aseptic technique

Lab equipment operation

Job description

This is a UC San Diego Internal Recruitment open to UCSD and UCSD Health System Staff Only

UCSD Layoff from Career Appointment: Apply by 11/5/2026 for consideration with preference for rehire. All layoff applicants should contact their Employment Advisor.

Reassignment Applicants: Eligible Reassignment clients should contact their Disability Counselor for assistance.

DESCRIPTION

The Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health at UC San Diego is a leading academic and research division with more than 40 faculty members dedicated to advancing infectious disease research, patient care, education, and global health initiatives. Research and clinical programs are conducted across multiple UC San Diego and VA facilities, supporting innovative studies in HIV/AIDS, emerging infections, immunology, antimicrobial resistance, and population health. Major international collaborations in Mozambique, Mexico, India, South Africa and Peru play important roles in the Division's expansion of its international programs. The division continues to grow and expand with the development of our international medicine program, as well the ongoing studies and interests of our faculty.

Under supervision, incumbent will perform experiments involving a limited variety of standard molecular biology techniques including HIV viral load assays, DNA/RNA extraction and purification, cDNA synthesis, polymerase chain reactions, gel electrophoresis, and DNA sequencing. Duties also include processing human blood and clinical samples from HIV infected donors. Technician will handle other laboratory tasks including maintaining an accurate laboratory notebook, detailed inventory of clinical specimens, freezer inventory, ordering supplies, preparation of solutions, maintain a clean laboratory area, minor equipment maintenance, and other lab tasks as needed.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Theoretical knowledge of biology, molecular biology, or other related fields.
• Ability to communicate clearly and to keep organized, neat, and accurate laboratory records and notebooks. Effectively and accurately document research procedures. Ability to read, comprehend, and discuss research materials.
• Experience with the operation of a personal computer and software application such as MS Word, and Excel.
• Enthusiasm for learning and a genuine interest in scientific research. Willingness and ability to learn new skills, research methods, and scientific principles. Ability to work with a variety of personnel from different laboratories.
• Knowledge of sterile culture and aseptic techniques. This includes preparation of buffers and reagents.
• Knowledge in the operation of scientific and experimental laboratory equipment necessary for the successful completion of the research design. This includes hand pipettors, pipetmans, pH meters, Mettler analytical and top-loading balances, plate washers, plate readers, agarose gel apparatus, thermocyclers, incubators, and various types of centrifuges.
• Organizational skills including the ability to organize and adapt the work schedule to accommodate experimental design.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Knowledge of HIV viral load assays or Elisa assays.
• Familiarity with processing blood, CSF, cultured cells and their supernatants infected with HIV and other human retroviruses.
• Knowledge of high throughput specimen processing, sequencing, and sequence data management.
• Knowledge of radiation safety and biosafety techniques and practices.
• Knowledge of proper manipulation of infectious specimens such as the use of Biological Hazard Level III and III bio-containment facilities and cabinets, decontamination of work areas and proper laboratory attire.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

• Must be willing to process culture cells, and human specimens infected with HIV and other human retroviruses.
• Must be willing to work with hazardous chemicals and radioisotopes.
• Must be able to adjust work schedule to meet deadlines. Must be able to work various hours and locations based on business needs.
• Employment is subject to a criminal background check.
• Employment is subject to pre-employment physical for those who work in clinical settings and/or with patients.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Complies with all policies and standards.
• Complies with the University of California, San Diego Health (UCSDH) Principles of Community.
• This position description is not intended to be a complete list of all responsibilities, duties or skills required for the job and is subject to review and change at any time, with or without notice, in accordance with the needs of the organization.

Pay Transparency Act

Annual Full Pay Range: $62,891 - $75,022 (will be prorated if the appointment percentage is less than 100%)

Hourly Equivalent: $30.12 - $35.93

Factors in determining the appropriate compensation for a role include experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. The Hiring Pay Scale referenced in the job posting is the budgeted salary or hourly range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position. The Annual Full Pay Range may be broader than what the University anticipates to pay for this position, based on internal equity, budget, and collective bargaining agreements (when applicable).