Staff Research Associate III - 138608

Department of Pediatrics is one of the largest departments within the UCSD School of Medicine with comprehensive clinical programs, extensive basic science and clinical research, and diverse educational opportunities for students, residents and fellows. The internationally renowned faculty play a major role in medical and graduate student training, providing educational and programmatic offerings that span several disciplines and provide diversity to meet the interests of a broad spectrum of students and scholars. More than one hundred trainees at the graduate student and postdoctoral level, as well as more than 300 professional, research and administrative staff who along with the department administrators interact closely with the faculty. The diverse mix of ages, backgrounds, and talents creates a robust work environment with challenging career opportunities and a commitment to continued growth potential. We constantly seek to recruit highly motivated, technologically advanced and interested individuals to become a part of our dynamic cutting-edge research, clinical, and educational environment.

Under the general supervision of the Principal Investigator, the Staff Research Associate III will be responsible for the independent design, development, optimization, and execution of advanced experimental strategies to study viral infection in human brain organoids, neural progenitor cells (NPCs), and complex three-dimensional neural systems.

The incumbent will generate and maintain human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and direct their differentiation into region-specific brain organoids representing multiple brain regions, including but not limited to cortical, forebrain, midbrain, and hindbrain identities. In addition, the incumbent will develop and assemble multi-regional brain assembloids to model inter-regional neural connectivity, viral spread, and cellular interactions across distinct brain compartments.

This position includes responsibility for performing and optimizing a wide range of virological, cellular, and molecular assays to characterize viral infection dynamics, including virus propagation, purification, titration, and infection kinetics in iPSC-derived neural systems. The incumbent will also analyze molecular, metabolic, and cellular alterations induced by viral infection in brain organoids, NPCs, and assembloids using mass spectrometry and complementary analytical approaches.

The incumbent is expected to make substantial and independent scientific contributions to the laboratory, including experimental conceptualization, development, optimization, and standardization of protocols, data interpretation, and strategic advancement of research programs. A high level of proficiency in scientific writing is required, with demonstrated ability to lead and contribute significantly to the writing, submission, and revision of competitive grant applications and peer-reviewed scientific manuscripts for high-impact, indexed journals. The incumbent will be expected to actively participate in shaping scientific narratives, responding to reviewers, and ensuring timely submission of funding proposals and publications.

Additional responsibilities include providing technical leadership, protocol training, and scientific mentorship to laboratory assistants, students, and other researchers; supporting other ongoing projects within the laboratory; and contributing to general laboratory organization, compliance, and continuous improvement of research workflows. Performs other duties as assigned.

• Advanced theoretical and practical knowledge of life science such as biology, molecular biology, stem cell biology and biochemistry including relevant laboratory techniques as typically attained by an advanced degree and/or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Demonstrated experience performing standard lab procedures involving the use of stem cells.

• Demonstrated skill in and knowledge of operating and maintaining a variety of lab equipment.

• Ability to generate human brain assembloids and expertise with thalamic and cortical organoid characterization.

• Demonstrated experience in maintaining well-organized lab and thorough records. Basic math skills and ability to handle accounting and billing practices.

• Demonstrated superior oral and written communication skills to communicate research results and carry out collaborative projects.

• Ability to work under supervision and independently on projects with a variety of personalities.

• Demonstrated ability to set priorities and to organize a varied workload to meet deadlines despite frequent interruptions.

• Strong computer knowledge: Proficiency with Windows programs and knowledge of library usage with the willingness and ability to learn new hardware/software as required.

• Ability to manage multiple projects, tasks and priorities to achieve desired goals.

• Demonstrated experience in conducting molecular experiments such as RNA, DNA assays.

• Ability to follow NCS policies and procedures for specimen collection and shipping; equipment calibration and maintenance.

• Demonstrated proficiency in the use of computer based spreadsheet, database, word processing communications and statistical applications (e.g., Excel, SPSS, Access, Word, Endnote, PowerPoint, SAS).

• Strong demonstrated experience in analysis and management of complex data.

• Strong demonstrated experience in qualitative research methods.

• Demonstrated ability to make innovative contributions pertaining to complex experimental procedures.

• Demonstrated knowledge of laboratory safety including radioactive/biohazard handling and disposal techniques, and the ability to ensure laboratory compliance with required safety regulations.

• Advanced knowledge and experience working with and handling small animals including mice. Demonstrated knowledge of normal physiological data of rodents, particularly mice. Experience with small animal husbandry and excellent organizational skills to manage all lab animal work.

*Strong demonstrated experience with research design, protocol development, and qualitative and quantitative research methods to independently address scientific challenges to move the project forward.

• Demonstrated experience in preparing complex solutions, culture media and reagents.

• Ability to use relevant computer software programs to organize and analyze data.

• Proven knowledge of microscopy imaging procedures and in vivo analysis.

• Demonstrated experience authoring journal articles, abstracts, and posters. Ability to prepare papers for publication and research proposals. Ability to read, comprehend and discuss research materials. Review the scientific articles and make innovate.

• Direct experience overseeing research projects.

• Skill and knowledge in maintaining cell culture facility.

• Demonstrated knowledge of Cal-OSHA & UCSD EH&S safety requirements including MSDS's, hazard communication & Injury and Illness Prevention Program; laboratory safety precautions including appropriate clothing and shoes, use of protective items such as gloves and goggles as well as basic first aid procedures.

• Skill and knowledge in conducting specialized tests and research experiments in the area of tissue culture.

• Employment is subject to a criminal background check.