Research Associate

University of Southern California (USC); Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 81,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Southern California (USC) Saito laboratory invites applications for a Research Associate to study innate immunology against human pathogens in liver disease contexts. The role emphasizes significant molecular biology, cell biology, virology, and systems biology approaches, with strong emphasis on mouse in vivo work and rigorous data analysis.

The successful candidate will design and conduct high-level experiments, contribute to publications and presentations, and help maintain

Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent doctorate with at least 1 year of related experience.
• Significant experience in molecular biology, in vitro and in vivo mouse experiments.
• Proficient in protein assays (Western blotting, immunoprecipitation) and nucleic acids (DNA/RNA: cloning, PCR, RT-qPCR, RNA synthesis, transfection).
• Skilled in microscopic analysis (IHC, immunofluorescent staining) and image analysis.

Responsibilities

• Develop, lead, and conduct high-tech research projects under the PI’s guidance.
• Design and perform experiments, analyze data, and provide interpretations.
• Lead authorship for publications and conference presentations.
• Maintain lab protocols, safety guidelines, and animal protocols; ensure quality control and material preparation.

Skills

Molecular biology

In vitro techniques

In vivo (mouse) experiments

Biochemistry

Microscopy

Education

PhD or equivalent doctorate

Tools

Western blotting

Immunoprecipitation

PCR

RT-qPCR

Cloning

Transfection

Immunofluorescent staining

Immunohistochemistry

Job description

A Research Associate position is available immediately in the Saito laboratory to study innate immunology against human pathogenic viruses and bacteria in the context of liver diseases. Our laboratory utilizes the tools of cell biology, virology, genetics, molecular biology, and systems biology. The ideal applicant will be a hardworking, creative, and highly self-motivated researcher interested in pathogen-host interaction, liver diseases, inflammation, and immunity. The candidate is expected to have significant experience in molecular biology, in vitro and in vivo experiments (mouse), biochemistry, protein assay (Western Blotting, Immunoprecipitation, gel analysis), nucleic acids (DNA and RNA such as cloning, PCR, RT-QPCR, RNA synthesis, transfection, extraction, gene overexpression/silencing), and microscopic analysis (immune fluorescent staining, Immunohistochemistry (IHC), light microscopy and image analysis and processing).

The Research Associate’s primary responsibilities will be to develop, lead, and conduct highly technical research projects under the PI's guidance. It includes identifying the research question, design, and perform experiments, as well as the analysis of research data and provides interpretations. The applicant is expected to serve as a lead author for publication and conference presentation. The candidate must be fluent in the use of laboratory equipment, computer/research/office software to conduct analyses of experiment data. The candidate also contributes to the quality control of the laboratory, such as preparation of general experimental materials, maintenance of laboratory protocols, safety guidelines, and animal protocols. Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, CV, references, and a list of any publications or accomplishments.

The summary of Saito laboratory research can be found at: https://sites.usc.edu/saito-lab/

Salary Range:

The annual range for this position is $70,745.28. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.

Minimum Education: Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate Minimum Experience: 1 year Minimum Field of Expertise: Directly related education and experience in research specialization with advanced knowledge of equipment, procedures and analysis methods.