Research Lab Technician I (Fixed-Term)

The University of Southern California (USC), founded in 1880, is located in the heart of downtown Los Angeles and is the city's largest private employer. USC is consistently ranked among the nation’s most prestigious universities, and the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology features one of the world’s best degree and research programs in gerontology. The USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology has an international reputation as a hub of aging research and, with additional strong programs throughout the university, leads the way in defining and advancing the field of gerontology: http://gero.usc.edu.

The laboratory of Dr. Marc Vermulst is interested in hiring a highly motivated, talented Research Lab Technician to support its efforts in understanding the molecular basis of human aging. The successful applicant will be responsible for growing the research program by investigating the molecular and cellular origins of Alzheimer’s disease and other diseases associated with protein misfolding and protein aggregation. We examine these diseases from a new perspective of transcriptional mutagenesis, which we believe plays a crucial role in the development of non-familial cases of these diseases and the pathology associated with aging. The ideas that underlie this research project are closely related to those that underlie mutation research, so some experience in mutation research is highly desirable. To support the research team, experience with neuronal cell culture, cell differentiation, and lentiviral transductions is also desirable. The research environment in the Vermulst laboratory is highly collaborative, provides a broad platform for scientific development, and encompasses numerous biological disciplines. As a result, it is an excellent incubator for the growth of new ideas. Please note that a desire to learn, good communication skills, and a willingness to work with others are required to be successful in this research environment.

Roles and responsibilities to include:

· Preparing experimental materials using laboratory protocols and safety guidelines.

· Collecting and sterilizing dishware and glassware for use in the laboratory.

· Handling and disposing of hazardous and non-hazardous materials in accordance with safety protocols.

· Setting up and operating standard laboratory equipment.

· Maintaining accurate records of procedures used to conduct basic experiments.

· Performing limited routine analysis and providing basic interpretations.

· Preparing chemical solutions under the direction of an experienced technician.

· Stocking and maintaining laboratory supplies.

· Monitoring inventory levels and ordering supplies as needed.

· Maintaining the laboratory environment in an orderly, operable condition.

· Learning basic laboratory safety and, if appropriate, basic radiation or blood-borne pathogen safety under the direction of the USC Safety Office and more experienced laboratory staff.

· Performing genotyping experiments by PCR

· Using qPCR to acquire gene expression data

· Extracting tissues from mice

· Slicing tissue with a cryo-stat

· Staining tissues with various reagents to expose mutated cells

· Growing mammalian cells

· Extracting RNA and DNA from cells

· Sequencing DNA and RNA from cells

· Transforming and transducing cells with plasmids

· Fluorescence microscopy

Preferred Qualifications:

· Detailed knowledge of mitochondrial genetics and mitophagy

· Detailed knowledge of mutational processes

· Detailed knowledge of cell culture and editing of genomes in cell culture

· Ability to work with mice

· General knowledge of mammalian anatomy

· General knowledge of microscopy

· General knowledge of standard molecular biology techniques such as cloning and PCR

Length of fixed-term assignment will be from the date of hire until August 31, 2025.

This is a non-exempt position with work expected to be standard in-person hours of operations, with potential for weekend work during emergencies only. No travel will be required. Benefits include a competitive salary, and a rich array of USC benefits including healthcare (including dental and vision), 403(b), tuition reimbursement, national holidays, paid vacation, and more.

This position is funded by a research contract/grant and may be funded by a subsequent contract/grant. Accordingly, your position is contingent upon receipt of the necessary funding from this or any subsequent contract/grant to continue employment.

The hourly rate range for this position is $21.61-$24.14. 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.

If you are interested, please submit your completed application, including a cover letter and resume with references. Thank you for your interest!

USC is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy. USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring ordinance. We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact USC Human Resources by phone at (213) 821-8100, or by email at uschr@usc.edu. Inquiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law.

Minimum Education: High school or equivalent, Combined experience/education as substitute for minimum education Minimum Experience: 6 - 12 months, Combined education/experience as substitute for minimum experience Minimum Field of Expertise: Ability to follow detailed instructions, oral and written