Laboratory Research Assistant - Cancer Center - 139934

The Moores Cancer Center (MCC) is one of just 57 NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers in the United States and the only one in San Diego County. As a consortium cancer center, it is a collaborative partnership between the UCSD: encompassing 28 departments, 6 schools (School of Medicine, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Public Health, Jacobs School of Engineering, School of Biological Sciences & the School of Physical Sciences), UCSD Health oncology hospitals and clinics; the basic and public health research and outreach of San Diego State University (SDSU), and the basic and translational research of the La Jolla Institute of Immunology (LJI). These various programs and units are all dedicated to fulfilling the Moores Cancer Center's mission of reducing cancer's burden. As such, it ranks among the top centers in the nation conducting the continuum of cancer research, providing advancedpatient care, and serving the community through outreach and education programs. As a top-ranking, future-oriented organization, we offer challenging career opportunities in a fast-paced and innovative environment. Moores Cancer Center follows a progressive philosophy ofcareer-path development for its employees including opportunities for cross-training, professional development, and progressive responsibility.

MCC's mission is to transform cancer care in our catchment area and beyond by driving exceptional scientific discoveries and innovations in prevention, detection, care, and training. MCC will make a global impact on improving health by reducing cancer burden through accelerateddiscovery and translation, compassionate and interdisciplinary care, education and community engagement, with the foundation of our core values - Excellence, Innovation and Risk-Taking, Collaboration, Diversity and Service.

Work under the guidance of experienced researchers to support cutting-edge cancer biology studies by assisting with the following duties:1) Perform gene manipulation in cell lines (e.g. RNAi and overexpression) to study gene function.2) Characterize resulting phenotypes through cellular assays including proliferation, migration, and cell signaling analyses.3) Isolate DNA and RNA and quantify gene expression using standard molecular biology techniques (e.g., qRT-PCR).4) Investigate RNA/RNA-binding protein interactions under cancer-relevant conditions.5) Assist with CRISPR/Cas9 and base editing approaches.6) Maintain mouse colonies and assist with transplanted tumor model experiments, including handling, monitoring, treatment, and sample collection.7) Support day-to-day lab management including onboarding new employees, ordering, inventory tracking, and equipment maintenance, and assist with additional tasks as directed by the supervising scientist.This role offers hands-on experience across a broad range of molecular and cellular techniques in a dynamic research environment.

• Theoretical knowledge of cell biology and molecular biology as typically attained by a Bachelor's degree in Biology, Chemistry, or other related areas, and/or equivalent education and experience.

• Basic knowledge of laboratory procedures and equipment, such as sterile techniques, preparation of buffers, centrifuges, balance pH meters and electrophoresis equipment.

• Ability to perform routine cell culture techniques, such as passaging and transfecting cells, and assess phenotypic changes through cellular assays

• Ability to follow basic research protocols and instructions.

• Ability to prepare basic chemical solutions, including performing gel electrophoresis by mixing gel solutions and pouring into gel molds. Ability to perform standard mathematic computations (calculate molarity) accurately.

• Ability to work with mice for surgical procedures, including anesthesia administration, colony maintenance, and assistance with transplanted tumor model experiments including handling, monitoring, and sample collection.

• Ability to adhere to established UCSD guidelines for safety and environmental issues.

• Organizational skills to order and maintain lab equipment and supplies, including inventory tracking.

• Strong communication skills (both verbally and written) needed to interact professionally and effectively with a diverse population at all levels of organization in person, over the phone or in writing. Ability to use diplomacy, tact, and discretion in all interactions.

• Proficient with computers for basic word processing and data entry into Excel.

• Ability to perform basic molecular biological techniques, including DNA and RNA isolation, cloning, and qRT-PCR.

• Enthusiasm for learning and a genuine interest in scientific research. Willingness and ability to learn new skills, research methods, and scientific principles.

• Employment is subject to a criminal background check.

• Must be willing and able to work with small animals.

• Must be willing and able to work with hazardous materials/chemicals.