Research Laboratory Specialist

Research Laboratory Specialist

This position is located in San Diego, CA.

The USC Keck School of Medicine - Alzheimer Therapeutic Research Institute (ATRI) is an academic institute committed to advancing the development of new treatments for Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) through innovative clinical trials.

ATRI is looking for a full time Research Lab Specialist to support the Biomarker Laboratory and Biorepository. Under supervision of the Lab Manager, you will perform a variety of laboratory procedures involving molecular biology approaches to AD research. This position will broaden your clinical research skills while working both independently and as a reliable team member.  

Responsibilities Overview:

• With direction from the Biomarker Director and Laboratory Manager, works to design and conduct highly technical and complex research projects and analyze and interpret research data. Operates and maintains sophisticated automated laboratory equipment. Designs and adapts equipment and procedures to meet specific research needs.
• Assists in processing research samples by receiving, processing, and banking human clinical trial samples following trial specific guidelines. Utilizes and maintains clinical trial databases to inventory samples and store relevant specimen data. Assists with ongoing clinical trial sample management as well as new clinical trial startup activities.
• Provides general lab support to meet the goals and objectives for the Biomarker Unit, including but not limited to: managing freezer inventories, ordering supplies and maintaining inventory levels. Advises on the acquisition of specialized equipment and laboratory workflows. Contributes to the development and implementation of laboratory procedures and policies and may train and supervise other laboratory personnel. Complies with quality control policies and procedures, such as Standard Operation Procedures (SOPs) and Enivornmental Health & Safety (EH&S) regulations.
• Critical skills: Attention to detail and accuracy. Self directed and resourceful; able to troubleshoot both technically and intellectually while understanding relevant scientific, molecular, and technical disciplines. Strong oral and written communication skills.

Minimum Experience:

• Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant life sciences field. Combined experience and education as as a substitute for minimum education requirements.
• Five years of previous laboratory experience. Experience in performing standard research techniques and in the operation and maintenance of various lab equipment. Advanced knowledge of equipment, procedures, and analysis methods. Able to supervise and train other laboratory personnel.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel.

Preferred Experience:

• Master’s Degree in a relevant life sciences field.
• Seven years of previous laboratory experience.
• Proficiency in Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) and databases.

The annual salary range for this position is $67,638.91 - $97,928.84. 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.

USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to the Background Screening Policy Appendix D for specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying.  

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