Research Associate II - Diabetes Research

aa067; Duarte (CA); On-site; USD 48,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

The Beckman Research Institute at City of Hope invites applications for a Research Associate II to explore mechanisms regulating pancreatic beta-cell development and diabetes pathogenesis. The role involves independent execution of advanced molecular and cellular biology experiments and contributing to high-impact research in a collaborative setting.

We seek candidates with strong hands-on experience, proficiency in data analysis (R/Python), and excellent communication skills, willing to work

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s in Biological Sciences required.
• 2+ years lab research with a bachelor’s degree or 1+ year related experience with a master’s degree.
• Ability to design, execute, troubleshoot, and record experiments.
• Experience with molecular/cellular biology techniques and DNA/RNA work.
• Experience with animal/tissue research including mice; histology preferred.
• Strong communication and teamwork; proficient in MS Office; R/Python; ability to work weekends.

Responsibilities

• Independently conduct molecular and cellular experiments using mammalian cell culture, iPSC models, sequencing prep.
• Develop, optimize, and troubleshoot protocols to ensure reliable results.
• Analyze and present data; maintain thorough research records and contribute to papers.
• Manage lab operations: inventory, reagents, equipment, safety and waste disposal.
• Train and mentor lab personnel on techniques and compliance.
• Stay current with literature and technologies; ensure safety and regulatory adherence.

Skills

Molecular biology

Cell culture

qRT-PCR

Western blotting

DNA/RNA isolation

Islet physiology

Mouse genetics

Data analysis (R/Python)

Scientific communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences

Master’s degree in Biological Sciences

Tools

MS Office

R

Python

Job description

Pay Rate: $35-$54.26 per hour

Join the forefront of groundbreaking research at the Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, where we're changing lives and making a real difference in the fight against cancer, diabetes, and other life-threatening illnesses. Our dedicated and compassionate faculty and staff are driven by a common mission: Contribute to innovative approaches in predicting, preventing, and curing diseases, shaping the future of medicine through cutting-edge research.

The Dhawan Lab at the Arthur Riggs Diabetes and Metabolism Research Institute seeks a Research Associate II to investigate mechanisms regulating pancreatic beta-cell development, function, and regeneration, as well as diabetes pathogenesis. We are looking for a researcher who can work with minimal supervision and take ownership of experiments: plan and execute established protocols with limited supervision, establish new methodology, recognize when results need further investigation, troubleshoot, and communicate findings and next steps clearly.

As a successful candidate you will:

• Independently conduct complex molecular and cellular biology research using a wide range of techniques, including mammalian cell culture, iPSC models, DNA/RNA isolation, sequencing library preparation, RT-PCR, Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, mouse genetics, confocal imaging, and islet physiology studies.
• Develop, optimize, and troubleshoot laboratory methods and experimental protocols; recommend alternative approaches, validate experimental plans, and ensure reliable research outcomes.
• Analyze, interpret, and present experimental data while maintaining thorough and accurate research records; contribute to laboratory meetings, departmental presentations, and scientific manuscripts.
• Manage laboratory operations, including inventory control, preparation of reagents and stock solutions, equipment oversight, and safe handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous and non-hazardous materials.
• Train and mentor laboratory personnel on specialized techniques, instrumentation, and scientific concepts to support research productivity and compliance.
• Stay current with emerging scientific literature and technologies to implement innovative methodologies and ensure adherence to laboratory safety and regulatory standards.

Your qualifications should include:

• Bachelor’s degree or master’s degree in Biological Sciences.
• 2+ years of hands-on lab research experience with a bachelor’s degree or 1+ year related experience with a master’s degree.
• Proven ability to independently design, execute, troubleshoot, and analyze laboratory experiments while maintaining detailed and accurate research records.
• Hands-on experience with molecular and cellular biology techniques, including DNA/RNA isolation, qRT-PCR, Western blotting, cell culture, and related laboratory methodologies; academic research experience preferred.
• Experience with animal and tissue-based research, including mouse work, tissue isolation, histological analysis, and operation of microtome and cryostat systems preferred.
• Strong communication, teamwork, and organizational skills, with proficiency in MS Office, R and/or Python, meticulous attention to detail, and flexibility to support project deadlines, including occasional weekend work.

City of Hope employees pay is based on the following criteria: work experience, qualifications, and work location.

City of Hope is an equal opportunity employer.