Senior Scientist

Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA; Torrance (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center in Torrance, CA, is seeking a Senior Scientist to lead iPSC reprogramming and differentiation projects in a dynamic core facility. This role combines independent execution with cross-functional collaboration to advance translational research.

The successful candidate will hold a PhD in cell or molecular biology and bring hands-on iPSC culture, directed differentiation, and expertise with flow cytometry and

Qualifications

• PhD in cell or molecular biology required.
• 1–2 years experience in iPSC culture and stem cell workflows.
• Experience with Seahorse assays, 10x Genomics platforms, and FACS sorting preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead and perform experiments involving iPSCs, including maintenance and directed differentiation.
• Design experiments, collect data, and document results.
• Operate FACS sorters, 10x Genomics platforms, and Seahorse assays.
• Train junior scientists and collaborate across teams.

Skills

Organizational skills

Independent work

Team collaboration

Verbal and written communication

Education

PhD in cell or molecular biology

Tools

10x Genomics platforms

Seahorse assays

FACS sorters

Confocal microscopy

Job description

Job DetailsJob Location: Torrance Campus - Torrance, CA 90502Position Type: FT 100% - 40 hours per week (FT Benefit)Salary Range: $90,000.00 - $100,000.00 Salary

About Us:

The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center is an independent, non-profit biomedical research organization located in Torrance, California. In dozens of laboratories throughout the campus, researchers are working to unravel the mysteries of heart and kidney disease, cardiac complications in newborns, chronic lung disease, skin cancer, sickle cell disease, disorders of the autoimmune system, and much more. Many of these projects are collaborative in nature, involving experts from different areas of specialization. Our discoveries have prevented blindness in newborns, enabled premature infants with fragile lungs to breathe and allowed children with rare, often fatal diseases to grow up healthy and strong.

POSITION SUMMARY & JOB SUMMARY

The Senior Scientist will lead advanced research projects focused on induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) reprogramming and differentiation. This role requires deep expertise in cellular reprogramming, lineage-specific differentiation, and assay development to support translational research and therapeutic discovery. The ideal candidate will drive experimental design, mentor junior scientists, and collaborate cross-functionally to achieve project milestones. In addition, the candidate will assist in training and education initiative.

REQUIREMENTS

• PhD degree in cell or molecular biology
• 1-2 years experience in Lab techniques including iPSC cell culture, preferred experience in Sea horse workflows and 10X genomic platforms operations (chromium and visium)
• Hands-on experience with:
  • Human iPSC culture and maintenance
  • Directed differentiation protocols
  • Sterile technique in cell culture
• Familiarity with advanced technologies such as:
  • Flow cytometry and FACS sorting
  • Confocal microscopy
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail.
• Proven ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Perform and support experiments involving induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), including maintenance, expansion, and directed differentiation.
• Execute sterile cell culture techniques with strict adherence to quality control and contamination prevention standards.
• Assist with experimental design, data collection, analysis, and documentation.
• Operate and maintain advanced research instrumentation, including FACS sorters, 10x Genomics platforms, and Seahorse assays.
• Maintain accurate and organized laboratory records, protocols, and inventory.
• Support multiple concurrent projects within the core and ensure timely completion of assigned tasks.
• Train and assist users of the core facility, fostering a collaborative and service-oriented environment.
• Communicate effectively with team members, investigators, and facility users regarding project needs, progress, and troubleshooting.
• Contribute to general core lab operations, including equipment maintenance and compliance with safety and regulatory guidelines.

This position is based in a dynamic, multi-user core facility supporting cutting-edge stem cell research. The role requires adherence to laboratory safety practices and may involve working with human-derived materials.

• Designing and performing new experiments
• Tissue culture and treatments
• Cell culture and differentiation
• Will have to organize and place orders
• Knowledge of data analysis software related to flow cytometry or imaging.

Position requires a background check and health clearance

Equal Opportunity Employer/Affirmative Action/Drug-Free Workplace