Lab Assistant I, Neurosciences - 141242

UC San Diego Health; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 56,000 - 67,000; Full time

Job summary

UC San Diego Health seeks a Lab Assistant to support operations in a neuroscience research lab studying Alzheimer's and neurodegenerative diseases. You will assist with mouse models, histology, cell biology and biochemical experiments, maintaining reagents and records, and presenting data at lab meetings.

Preferred candidates hold a biology degree and have experience with routine lab techniques, data management, and collaboration in a team setting.

Qualifications

• Graduation from college or GED with science background or two years of college.
• Willingness to learn CRISPR and fluorescence microscopy.
• Ability to perform basic aseptic and tissue culture techniques.
• Ability to use standard lab equipment (centrifuges, spectrophotometers, balances, pH meters, electrophoresis).
• Basic knowledge of molecular biology techniques.
• Willingness to handle chemical and biohazard materials safely.
• Able to read, discuss, and present research materials.
• Strong communication and record-keeping skills.
• Proficiency with MS Office and data organization.
• Organizational skills to maintain reagents and supplies.
• Professional interaction with colleagues.

Responsibilities

• Assist with maintenance of mouse lines and mouse surgeries.
• Perform histology, brain dissections, and cell biology experiments.
• Record data accurately and contribute to potential publications.
• Prepare reagents, maintain inventory, and attend laboratory meetings.
• Learn and assist with techniques such as CRISPR and fluorescence microscopy.

Skills

CRISPR

Microscopy

Cell culture

Mouse models

Molecular biology

Education

Bachelor's degree in biology

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

UCSD Layoff from Career Appointment: Apply by 9/8/2026 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

Under supervision of the Principal Investigator (PI), the Lab Assistant perform operational level work in a research laboratory requiring delicate manual or manipulative skills in a limited variety of tasks. Assist with utilize mouse model, cell biology, imaging, biochemical and neuropathology techniques for the study of mechanisms underlying Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative diseases.

The Lab Assistant assist in performing standardized maintenance of normal and transgenic mouse lines, mouse surgeries, histology experiments, mouse brain dissections, primary culture, perform standard cell biology and biochemical experiments, and learn and assist with other techniques. Responsible for detailed observations, accurate recording of data, learning to determine rational assessments of experimental outcomes for potential scientific publications, troubleshooting experiments and assist in making changes to protocols as needed. Other important duties include general laboratory maintenance, prepare reagents and solutions, maintain inventory on reagents and other supplies, and attend and present data at laboratory meetings.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Graduation from college or a General Education Diploma and one year of laboratory experience or two years of college including courses in the natural, physical or social sciences; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Willingness to learn new laboratory techniques under supervision, including CRISPR and fluorescence microscopy.
• Ability to assist with basic aseptic and tissue culture techniques.
• Ability to use basic laboratory equipment including centrifuges, spectrophotometers, balances, pH meters, and electrophoresis equipment.
• Basic knowledge of molecular biology techniques.
• Willingness to become familiar with proper handling of chemical and biohazard materials.
• Ability to read, comprehend, discuss, and present research materials.
• Ability to follow written and verbal protocols, techniques, and instructions and to keep organized and accurate records and notebooks.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills over a wide range of situations and individuals needed to interact professionally and effectively in the work environment in person, on the phone, and in writing to a diverse population.
• Experience with the operation of a personal computer and software applications, such as Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Organizational skills to maintain lab reagents and supplies.
• Ability to interact professionally, cooperatively, and respectfully with colleagues and laboratory team members.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Master's degree in biology.
• Two years of wet lab research experience.
• Proficient in cell cultures, rodent husbandry and colony maintenance.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

• Willing to work with animals in a humane manner and in a research related work environment.
• Must be available to work some weekends and evenings to complete experiments.
• Must be able to work various hours and locations based on business needs.
• Employment is subject to a criminal background check.

Pay Transparency Act

Annual Full Pay Range: $56,460 - $67,463 (will be prorated if the appointment percentage is less than 100%)

Hourly Equivalent: $27.04 - $32.31

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).