Staff Research Associate I - Pediatrics

University of California - Los Angeles Health; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative institution is seeking a Staff Research Associate 1 to join their team in exploring cutting-edge cellular therapeutic technologies. In this full-time role, you will conduct experiments focused on nanoparticle synthesis and characterization, while also engaging in advanced molecular biology analyses. This position offers a unique opportunity to work with nanotechnology-enabled methods for biomolecular packaging and delivery. If you are passionate about scientific research and eager to contribute to groundbreaking projects, this role is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• Experience in culturing and maintaining human primary cells and cell lines.
• Ability to synthesize nanoparticles and work with microfluidic devices.

Responsibilities

• Conduct experiments on cellular therapeutic manufacturing platforms.
• Lead efforts in tailoring lipid nanoparticle structures.

Skills

Cell culture

Nanoparticle synthesis

Molecular biology techniques

Flow cytometry

Immunostaining

RNA extraction

Tools

Scanning electron microscopy

Transmission electron microscopy

Microfluidic devices

Job description

Description

Under supervision of the Principal Investigator, the Lab Manager, and the Senior Postdoctoral Scholars, the Staff Research Associate 1 (SRA 1) will conduct experiments investigating the design of cellular therapeutic manufacturing platforms that leverage nanotechnology-enabled methods for biomolecular nanoparticle-based packaging and intracellular delivery. The SRA 1 will be empowered to lead efforts aimed at tailoring lipid nanoparticle structures with targeting functionalities using click chemistry approaches and conduct their work independently. Responsibilities include but are not limited to: nanoparticle synthesis and characterization, tissue culture, molecular biology analyses such as flow cytometry, Western blot, gel electrophoresis, PCR, immunohistochemistry, confocal microscopy, electron microscopy, etc. In addition, the SRA 1 will assist laboratory personnel with experiments as needed, provide for maintenance of equipment related to nanoparticle preparation and microfluidic device prototyping.

Please note that this is a full-time 18 month limited position and may convert to a career.

Salary Range: $26.52 - $31.63/Hourly

Qualifications

All Required:

• The ability to culture and maintain human primary cells and cell lines.
• Experience in nanoparticle synthesis and/or working with microfluidic devices.
• Organize and research project-related records, data, and experimental protocols.
• Experience with scanning/transmission electron microscopy.
• Experience with immunostaining, flow cytometry, and confocal imaging.
• Perform RNA extraction, MaxiPrep, and qPCR.
• Critically evaluate relevant literature on similar techniques to troubleshoot and adapt these protocols.
• Experience working with other lab scientists to troubleshoot protocols and procedures.