Staff Research Associate - Pathology

University of California San Diego; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 45,000 - 73,000; Full time

Job summary

UC San Diego Pathology Center for Perinatal Discovery seeks a Staff Research Associate (SRA 2 NEX) to perform advanced molecular and cellular studies using human ex vivo models and high-dimensional proteomics. Under PI supervision, you will work with primary cells, mouse tissues, and antibody-based assays in a collaborative lab.

This role coordinates sample collection, biohazard safety, and lab maintenance, supporting research on reproductive immunology and pregnancy.

Qualifications

• Bachelor degree in biology or related field or equivalent lab experience.
• Experience with cytometry, ideally mass cytometry; flow cytometry also relevant.
• Experience in human sample processing protocols and sterile technique.
• Ability to follow written and verbal protocols and instructions.
• Strong communication skills across diverse populations.
• Proficiency with MS Office, Photoshop, and Acrobat.
• Willingness to learn new techniques and maintain lab equipment.

Responsibilities

• Perform complex molecular and cellular studies using human ex vivo models.
• Handle primary cells and tissues from human and mouse origins.
• Operate imaging flow cytometry and cell sorting; conjugate antibodies.
• Prepare media, buffers, and maintain antibody libraries.
• Coordinate sample collection and biobanking with partners.
• Assist in data processing and statistical analyses.

Skills

Molecular biology knowledge

Cytometry experience

Data interpretation

Lab safety compliance

Education

Bachelor degree in biology or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Photoshop

Acrobat

Flow cytometer

Job description

Payroll Title: SRA 2 NEX

Department: PATHOLOGY

Hiring Pay Scale: $32.79 - $52.75 / Hour

Worksite: La Jolla

Appointment Type: Career

Appointment Percent: 100%

Union: RX Contract

Total Openings: 1

Work Schedule: 8 hrs/day, Monday-Friday

#141959 Staff Research Associate - Pathology

Filing Deadline: Mon 11/9/2026

UCSD Layoff from Career Appointment: Apply by 10/28/2026 for consideration with preference for rehire. All layoff applicants should contact their Employment Advisor.

Reassignment Applicants: Eligible Reassignment clients should contact their Disability Counselor for assistance.

DESCRIPTION

The Center for Perinatal Discovery (CPD) is a collaboration between the Departments of Pathology, Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, and Pediatrics. The CPD was established to promote research into perinatal health, including the health of both mothers and babies. To this end, the CPD is conducting research studies into both maternal and neonatal health. Clinical data and biospecimens are being collected at several clinical sites from normal and high-risk pregnancies, with neonatal/pediatric follow-up. The CPD is also involved in community educational activities which promote maternal and child health.

Under supervision of the PI, the incumbent will perform complex studies with molecular and cellular methods using human ex vivo model systems and single-cell high-dimensional proteomics techniques. They will perform research activities such as handling of primary cells and tissues of human and mouse origin, performing suspension and imaging mass and flow cytometry (incl. cell sorting), antibody conjugation and titration, immuno fluorescence analysis, and quantitative (real- time) PCR to assist with contributions to the laboratory and its collaborators. They will also prepare media, buffers, and solutions as needed, and maintain an antibody library. Data processing and statistical analysis as needed.

The position will coordinate human sample collection and transport with clinical and research partners and organize and execute processing, stimulation, and biobanking of samples. They will assist with other related functions as required. This individual will assist in complex research on reproductive immunology, neuroimmunology of pregnancy, and prediction and prevention of human pregnancy complications. The incumbent will assist with experimental procedures requiring ingenuity, resourcefulness, and adaptability to special and changing needs of research.

The position will also manage our biohazard use authorization and serve as our area safety coordinator, provide routine laboratory equipment maintenance, order and maintain supplies and equipment and oversee undergraduate part-time lab aides whose duties include washing glassware and making buffers for the lab.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Theoretical knowledge of molecular biology techniques and genetics typically acquired through Bachelor degree in biology or related field, and/or relevant lab experience.
• Demonstrated knowledge in cytometry, ideally mass cytometry, but flow and spectral flow cytometry are equally relevant. Spatial proteomics experience/theoretical knowledge preferred but not required.
• Experience in human sample processing protocols and sterile technique.
• Demonstrated ability to follow written and verbal protocols, techniques, and instructions
• Demonstrated excellent communication and interpersonal skills over a wide range of situations and individuals needed to interact professionally and effectively in the work environment in person, on the phone, and in writing to a diverse population; including persons from foreign countries, the business community, academicians, students and staff with a high degree of diplomacy, mature judgment, tact, and flexibility.
• Knowledge of proper formats, grammar, and spelling in English and proofreading ability sufficient to compose, edit, and publish professional correspondence as well as effectively and accurately document research procedures. Ability to read, comprehend, discuss, and present research materials.
• Demonstrated experience with the operation of a personal computer and software applications, such as Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Access), Photoshop, Acrobat.
• Willingness to learn new theory, techniques, and tasks and share knowledge.
• Demonstrated experience making decisions, analyzing situations, problem solving, and initiating action for laboratory maintenance.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Knowledge of bio, chemical, and radiation safety techniques and practices. Demonstrated ability to follow established Safety and Biohazardous Material Guidelines and implement measures to ensure compliance and maintain associated records.
• Demonstrated organizational skills to order and maintain lab reagents and supplies, and keep accurate lab records and computer files.
• Experience with UCSD ordering, EH&S, and facilities policies and business systems.
• Experience with mouse experiments and husbandry.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

• Must be able to work various hours and locations based on business needs.
• Employment is subject to a criminal background check.
• Employment is subject to pre-employment physical for those who work in clinical settings and/or with patients.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Complies with all policies and standards.
• Complies with the University of California, San Diego Health (UCSDH) Principles of Community.
• This position description is not intended to be a complete list of all responsibilities, duties or skills required for the job and is subject to review and change at any time, with or without notice, in accordance with the needs of the organization.
• Must be willing to work with animal/human tissues.
• Must be willing to work with hazardous materials.
• Must have access to reliable transportation to meet occasional operational needs.
• Must be willing to travel offsite.

Pay Transparency Act

Annual Full Pay Range: $68,466 - $110,142 (will be prorated if the appointment percentage is less than 100%)

Hourly Equivalent: $32.79 - $52.75

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).

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.
If applicable, life-support certifications (BLS, NRP, ACLS, etc.) must include hands-on practice and in-person skills assessment; online-only certification is not acceptable.

UC San Diego Health Sciences is comprised of our School of Medicine, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, The Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science, and our Student Health and Well-Being Department. We have long been at the forefront of translational - or 'bench-to-bedside' - research, transforming patient care through discovery and innovation leading to new drugs and technologies. Translational research is carried out every day in the hundreds of clinical trials of promising new therapies offered through UC San Diego Health, and in the drive of our researchers and clinician-scientists who are committed to having a significant impact on patient care. We invite you to join our team!

Applications/Resumes are accepted for current job openings only. For full consideration on any job, applications must be received prior to the initial closing date. If a job has an extended deadline, applications/resumes will be considered during the extension period; however, a job may be filled before the extended date is reached.

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.

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UC San Diego Health maintains a marijuana and drug free environment. Employees may be subject to drug screening.

Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts an offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of substantiated misconduct with a previous employer.

a. 'Misconduct' means any violation of the policies governing employee conduct at the applicant’s previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, or discrimination, as defined by the employer. For reference, below are UC’s policies addressing some forms of misconduct:

• UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
• UC Anti-Discrimination Policy
• Abusive Conduct in the Workplace