Staff Research Associate IV - 135240

UC San Diego; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 73,000 - 101,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dedicated Staff Research Associate IV to contribute to groundbreaking research in neurobiology and neuroscience. This role involves leading complex projects, designing experiments, and collaborating with faculty and lab members. The ideal candidate will possess expert knowledge in neurobiology, molecular biology, and genetics, along with a strong track record of independent research. Join a dynamic team at a prestigious institution that values diversity and inclusion, and make a significant impact in the field of neuroscience. This is a unique opportunity to advance your career while working in a collaborative and innovative environment.

Qualifications

• Expert knowledge of neurobiology and molecular biology techniques.
• Experience in executing research projects independently.
• Ability to analyze and interpret complex data.

Responsibilities

• Lead complex research projects in neurobiology and neuroscience.
• Design experiments and analyze data independently.
• Train and supervise lab staff and students.

Skills

Neurobiology

Molecular Biology

Genetics

Immunocytochemistry

Calcium Imaging

Fluorescence Microscopy

Confocal Imaging

In Vivo Fiber Photometry

Stereological Neuronal Quantification

Behavioral Tests

Education

Bachelor's in Biology

Equivalent Laboratory Experience

Tools

MS Word

Excel

PowerPoint

PhotoShop

ImageJ

Steroinvestigator

Leica Microsystems

Job description

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Payroll Title

SRA 4

Department

NEUROBIOLOGY

Hiring Pay Scale

$73,042 - $100,279 / Year

Worksite

Campus

Appointment Type

Limited Appointment

Appointment Percent

60%

Union

RX Contract

Total Openings

1

Work Schedule

Days, variable, Mon-Fri hours as needed

#135240 Staff Research Associate IV

Filing Deadline: Wed 5/14/2025

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UC San Diego values equity, diversity, and inclusion. If you are interested in being part of our team, possess the needed licensure and certifications, and feel that you have most of the qualifications and/or transferable skills for a job opening, we strongly encourage you to apply.

This is a 60% limited appointment for approximately 12 months. It may be extended up to 18 months total or converted to career status based on the needs of the department. Appointment may be increased up to 100% depending on funding and operational need.

Description

Under direction of the PI, the incumbent is responsible for making independent and original contributions to research and experiments in neurobiology and neuroscience. The incumbent leads a complex project and works independently to design experiments.

Independently analyze and interpret data, troubleshoot methodology, review relevant literature, prepare papers for publications in top-tier journals, participate in the design and writing of grant proposals, and collaborate with other faculty and lab members. Attend lab meetings and present research results as needed. Responsible for providing training to other lab staff in neurobiological techniques and to provide oversight and guidance to undergraduate and graduate students as well as postdocs.

Qualifications

• Expert level theoretical and practical knowledge of neurobiology, molecular biology and genetics, including relevant laboratory techniques, acquired through a Bachelor's in Biology or related field OR an equivalent combination of education and laboratory experience.
• Extensive demonstrated ability to independently participate in the execution of research projects or portions of such projects, independently planning, organizing and performing experiments and selecting data for analysis.
• Expertise in the following techniques and procedures: * immunocytochemistry * calcium imaging * fluorescence microscopy * confocal imaging * in vivo fiber photometry * stereological neuronal quantification * brain surgery * viral vector injections * in situ hybridization (RNA scope) * behavioral tests such as Elevated Plus Maze, Forced Swimming and two-bottle choice tests.
• Extensive demonstrated and detailed experience with experimental techniques in neurobiology and neuroscience, with a focus on mechanisms of neuroplasticity associated with neuropsychiatric conditions and neurodegenerative disorders.
• Demonstrated experience in successfully carrying out independent research in developmental neuroscience.
• Experience training and supervising undergraduate and graduate students, and postdoctoral fellows.
• Computer skills in entering, analyzing and presenting data, using MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint as well as image analysis software such as PhotoShop, ImageJ, Steroinvestigator, Leica microsystems.
• Excellent record of publishing papers in top-tier journals and presenting research at conferences
• Ability to collaborate with other faculty members and researchers in the department.
• Advanced proven ability to independently utilize scientific literatures, online databases and other relevant resources to apply to research projects and execute experiments. Knowledge of PubMed or library literature search to identify relevant research papers, journals and books
• Advanced demonstrated ability to develop, follow and trouble-shoot established lab protocols and lab procedures with limited direction from PI.
• Advanced demonstrated ability to independently prepare and edit scientific papers, manuscripts, and lab data. Experience presenting research to formal audience.
• Demonstrated successful, positive interpersonal communication skills needed to interact well with others to facilitate communication about lab requirements, including the ability to discuss and understand day-to-day laboratory affairs, research plans, results and ideas with PI and other personnel in a constructive, professional and pleasant manner.
• Excellent organizational skills including the ability to keep clear and accurate records, organize a varied workload, follow written and oral protocols and give oral presentations on the progress of research in lab meetings. Proven ability to prioritize and schedule experiments and duties to maximize efficiency.
• Advanced experience and knowledge of proper handling, storage and disposal of chemicals, biochemicals, hazardous chemicals, and biohazardous materials.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality in matters related to work.
• Willingness and demonstrated ability to embrace and consistently uphold and lead the principles of community for a collaborative work environment.
• Advanced skill to prepare and maintain with completeness and accuracy a variety of laboratory records, files and notebooks.
• Advanced knowledge of MSDS's (Material Safety Data Sheets), & the hazard communication & Injury and Illness Prevention Program. Knowledge of laboratory safety precautions including appropriate clothing and shoes, safe handling of chemicals, use of protective items such as gloves and goggles. Knowledge of basic first aid procedures.
  
  

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

• Background check required.
• This is a 60% limited appointment for approximately 12 months. It may be extended up to 18 months total or converted to career status based on the needs of the department.Appointment may be increased up to 100% depending on funding and operational need.
  
  

Pay Transparency Act

Annual Full Pay Range: $73,043 - $117,557 (will be prorated if the appointment percentage is less than 100%)

Hourly Equivalent: $34.98 - $56.30

Factors in determining the appropriate compensation for a role include experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. The Hiring Pay Scale referenced in the job posting is the budgeted salary or hourly range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position. The Annual Full Pay Range may be broader than what the University anticipates to pay for this position, based on internal equity, budget, and collective bargaining agreements (when applicable).

Apply Now

If employed by the University of California, you will be required to comply with our Policy on Vaccination Programs, which may be amended or revised from time to time. Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements.

To foster the best possible working and learning environment, UC San Diego strives to cultivate a rich and diverse environment, inclusive and supportive of all students, faculty, staff and visitors. For more information, please visit UC San Diego Principles of Community.

The University of California 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, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.

For the University of California’s Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination

UC San Diego is a smoke and tobacco free environment. Please visit smokefree.ucsd.edu for more information.

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Employment type

  Contract

Job function

• Job function

  Research, Analyst, and Information Technology

• Industries

  Education

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