Specialized Laboratory Technician

This position is located in San Diego, CA. The Neuroscience Translational Research Division (NTRD) is looking for a full time Specialized Laboratory Technician to support the Translational Research Division. Under supervision of the Lab Director, you will perform a variety of laboratory procedures involving protein chemistry and molecular biology. You will build research skills while working both independently and as a reliable team member.

Responsibilities Overview:

• Plays a vital role in processing our research samples, which is the primary focus of the position. Receives, processes, and generates data from human and murine samples following standard operating procedures. Utilizes and maintains clinical trial databases to inventory samples and store relevant specimen data. Assists with ongoing tissue management as well as new laboratory startup activities.
• Provides general lab support to meet the goals and objectives for the Translational Research Division, including but not limited to managing freezer inventories, maintaining supply inventory levels, and maintaining research samples. Complies with quality control policies and procedures, such as Standard Operation Procedures (SOPs) and Environmental 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 a substitute for minimum education requirements.
• Four years of previous laboratory experience. Experience in performing standard research techniques and in the operation and maintenance of various lab equipment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel.

Preferred Experience:

• Seven years of previous laboratory experience.
• Proficiency in Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) and databases.

Location:  San Diego, CA

The hourly rate range for this position is $26.38 – $35.15. 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: Bachelor's degree Minimum Experience: 4 years Minimum Field of Expertise: Degree in directly related specialized scientific field. Previous specialized laboratory experience, knowledgeable in use of specialized laboratory equipment. Working knowledge of lab procedures, techniques and testing related to specialized scientific field. Computer literacy.