Lab Assistant - 133969

The Department of Neurosciences is a leading clinical-academic department within the UCSD School of Medicine and is comprised of more than 130 faculty members. The Department's mission is to create the synergies and define the ideas and programs that will allow us to transform the way our neurosciences community discovers, teaches and cares for patients. We strive to conduct cutting-edge science and research and train the next generation of neurologists and researchers by fostering education at all levels and integrating the latest scientific and medical advances into the curriculum.

Under supervision, the incumbent will assist in the performance of PCR genotyping and animal colony maintenance procedures while keeping detailed data records. Incumbent will assist with, and perform, various laboratory and tissue culture facility maintenance duties (including order, store and dispense a variety of supplies; maintain equipment, assist in the operation of laboratory equipment, and general clean-up). Assist supervisor and laboratory members with special experiments and various technical assignments, as necessary. Interacts effectively with faculty, postdoctoral scholars, students, and research technicians in a laboratory.

• Graduation from high school or a General Education Diploma and two years of laboratory experience OR two years of college including courses in the natural, physical or social sciences and one year of laboratory experience, OR an equivalent combination of education and experience. Bachelor's degree preferred.

• Knowledge of basic lab operations, procedures, and proper use and maintenance of lab equipment.

• Familiarity with basic and general science techniques

• Experience in the preparation of scientific reagents including common stock solutions, buffers, and media.

• Demonstrated ability to utilize analytical skills, and knowledge to perform basic laboratory calculations.

• Knowledge of basic lab operations, procedures, and proper use and maintenance of lab equipment.

• Ability to follow established lab protocols and work effectively with minimal instruction.

• Knowledge/understanding and at least some experience with Safety Data Sheets, hazard communication and Injury and Illness Prevention Program. Familiarity with a Chemical Hygiene Plan addressing safety precautions including appropriate clothing and shoes, safe handling of chemicals, use of protective items. Willingness and ability to keep safety training current and consistent with research involvement.

• Ability to train others in various lab techniques and procedures (safety precautions, preparation of media, dishwashing, equipment usage, laboratory maintenance, etc.).

• Good interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills. Demonstrated ability in using tact, diplomacy, discretion, and flexibility with diverse personalities and situations. Skill to work as part of a research team and to interact effectively with faculty, students, and staff.

• Proficient in the use of Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, internet and email with a willingness to learn new programs as needed.

• Ability to maintain confidentiality of matters related to research.

• Familiarity of purchasing and reimbursement procedures. Skill in maintaining steady levels of lab supplies, and purchasing records, and assist in training others in purchasing procedures.

• Knowledge of library usage to locate journals in stacks and from other sources, and the ability to copy specific articles for research.

• Sensitivity to the needs of caged laboratory animals in compliance with AAALAC standards.

• Knowledge of the central nervous system combined with the ability to perform brain surgeries on mice. Ability to learn new surgical procedures as needed.

• Knowledge of UCSD/EH&S procedures for lab safety.

• Proficient in the use of computer aided drafting (CAD), pcb design, and optical design software with a willingness to learn new programs as needed.

• Employment is subject to a criminal background check.

• Must be willing to work evenings and/or weekends as needed to accommodate experiments.