Research Lab Technician I

University of Southern California; Los Angeles, Northern (CA, KY); On-site; USD 30,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Southern California in Los Angeles seeks a research technician to join the Han lab. The role involves collecting and processing patient specimens, performing in vitro/in vivo experiments, and conducting bioinformatic analysis of genomic data.

The ideal candidate can perform cell culture, qPCR, immunohistochemistry, and basic molecular biology techniques. Preference given to candidates with a master's degree and with strong organizational skills for meticulous specimen records.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required; master's preferred.
• Experience with cell culture, qPCR, and immunohistochemistry is desirable.
• Ability to keep meticulous records of patient specimens and experiments.

Responsibilities

• Prepare experimental materials following protocols and safety guidelines.
• Collect and sterilize labware.
• Handle hazardous and non-hazardous materials per safety procedures.
• Set up and operate standard laboratory equipment.
• Maintain accurate procedural records and perform basic analyses.
• Prepare chemical solutions under guidance of senior staff.
• Manage inventory and procure supplies.
• Maintain orderly laboratory environment and safety practices.

Skills

Cell culture

qPCR

Immunohistochemical staining

Molecular biology techniques

Bioinformatic analysis (genomic data)

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree (preferred)

Tools

DNA/RNA extraction

Library preparation

Cloning

Microscopy (light & fluorescence)

Job description

The laboratory of Albert Y. Han, MD/PhD in the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery is seeking a talented individual to join as a research techician. The Han lab studies molecular mechanisms of head and neck cancer using patient samples as well as pre-clinical models. The research assistant will work closely with the team to collect and process patient specimens, conduct in vitro/in vivo experiments, and bioinformatic analysis of genomic data. The ideal candidate must be able to perform cell culture, qPCR, immunohistochemical staining, molecular biology techniques (DNA/RNA extraction, library preparation), light and florescence microscopy, basic rodent surgical procedures. The candidate should be able to keep a meticulously organized patient specimen database. Preference will be given to candidates with master's degrees. This is a unique opportunity for those preparing for medical school or advanced research training (ie, 'gap year') with ample interactions with collaborators and clinicians in the department.

Job Accountabilities

• Prepares experimental materials using laboratory protocols and safety guidelines.
• Collects and sterilizes dishware and glassware for use in laboratory.
• Handles and disposes of hazardous and non-hazardous materials in accordance with safety protocols.
• Sets up and operates standard laboratory equipment.
• Maintains accurate records of procedures used to conduct basic experiments.
• Performs limited routine analysis and provides basic interpretations.
• Prepares chemical solutions under the direction of an experienced technician.
• Stocks and maintains laboratory supplies.
• Monitors inventory levels and orders or secures supplies as needed.
• Maintains laboratory environment in orderly, operable condition.
• Learns basic laboratory safety and, if appropriate, basic radiation or blood borne pathogen safety under the direction of the USC Safety Office and more experienced laboratory staff.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in cancer biology, molecular biology, physiology, immunology, bioinformatics, computational biology, or related fields.
• Minimum requirement: bachelor's degree.
• Proficient in molecular biology techniques such as cloning, DNA/RNA extraction, library preparation, qPCR, and others involving multiple scientific equipment.
• 1+ year experience with strong record of accomplishments and project experience in cell culture, rodent model, or related translational research Excellent oral and written communications skills.

Salary range: The hourly base salary for this position is $22.43 - $27.63.

Minimum Education: High school or equivalent, Combined experience/education as substitute for minimum education.

Minimum Experience: 6 - 12 months, Combined education/experience as substitute for minimum experience.

Minimum Field of Expertise: Ability to follow detailed instructions, oral and written USC is an equal opportunity employer.

USC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy. USC observes affirmative action obligations consistent with state and federal law. USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to the Background Screening Policy Appendix D for specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying. We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact USC Human Resources by phone at [phone], or by email at [e-mail]. Inquiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law.

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If you are a current USC employee, please apply to this USC job posting in Workday by copying and pasting this link into your browser: https://wd5.myworkday.com/usc/d/inst/1$9925/9925$151490.htmld USC is a leading private research university located in the heart of downtown Los Angeles - a global center for arts, technology and international business. As the largest private employer in the city - responsible for more than $5 billion annually in economic activity in the region - we offer the opportunity to work in a dynamic and diverse environment, in careers that span a broad spectrum of talents and skills. As a USC employee, you will enjoy excellent benefits and perks, and you will be a member of the Trojan Family - the faculty, staff, students and alumni who make USC a great place to work.