Research Lab Specialist

The USC Roski Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology is seeking a Research Lab Specialist to participate in ongoing clinical research projects aimed to improve diagnostic evaluation and therapeutic intervention of various eye diseases.  The ideal candidate will have experience in imaging instrumentation and image analysis, use of software (Matlab and Labview).  Specific responsibilities include: image acquisition and analysis, assist in development and application of imaging equipment and software. The candidate must have a Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree and be able to work independently as well as collaboratively with an interdisciplinary research team. The successful candidate will be self-motivated, responsible, and have excellent analytical and communication skills

Job Summary:

Collaborates with principal investigator and other researchers to plan, design and conduct highly technical and complex research projects. Analyzes research data and provides interpretations. Contributes to the development of research documentation for publication. May supervise other employees engaged in laboratory technical services on a regular or project basis.

Job Accountabilities include:

• Plans and conducts highly technical and complex research projects, procedures and analyses. Supervises other research personnel in procedures, techniques and use of equipment as needed.
• Evaluates research data requiring significant knowledge of a specialized area of research. Maintains accurate records. Prepares technical reports and papers.
• Operates and maintains sophisticated laboratory/scientific equipment. Designs, creates or adapts equipment and procedures to meet specific research needs.
• Collaborates with principal investigator and other research personnel to plan and design experiments. Advises on methods for improving experiment results. Reviews progress and discusses with principal investigator.
• Supervises laboratory staff and student workers. Participates in recruiting and hiring of staff. Trains and provides technical guidance as needed. Schedules, assigns and prioritizes work. Monitors and evaluates employee performance and counsels or disciplines as needed.
• Advises on acquisition or enhancement of specialized equipment and laboratory setup or design.
• Stays current in field of specialization through coursework, reading journals and scientific papers, maintaining professional networks and attending seminars and conferences as appropriate.

Preferred Qualifications:

Preferred Education: Bachelor’s Degree, Master’s Degree; Associate's Degree

Preferred Experience: 3 years

Preferred Field of Expertise:  cell or molecular biology, optical imaging

Special Instructions to Applicants:

Applicant Attachments (Required):   Application/Resume

Work Location:  Mudd Memorial Research Building (MMR)

Percentage of Time:  100%, 37.5 hours/week

The annual base salary range for this position is $65,472.63 - $91,325.17. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.

Minimum Education: Related graduate study, Combined experience/education as substitute for minimum education Minimum Experience: 5 years Minimum Field of Expertise: Directly related education and experience in research specialization with advanced knowledge of equipment, procedures and analysis methods and ability to supervise on a regular or project basis