Research Assistant - 137873

The Department of Medicine is the largest department within the UCSD School of Medicine and is responsible for fulfilling the teaching, research, and clinical missions of the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine.

The Majithia lab studies type 2 diabetes, obesity and insulin resistance using the tools of genomics, massively parallel experimentation and statistics. We have two research goals: 1) to identify genes causing insulin resistance in humans with therapeutic properties for drug development2) to personalize drug choices for people with metabolic disease using genetic information and novel biomarkers

The incumbent will work directly for the principal investigator (PI) and in close collaboration with a multi-disciplinary team of investigators including clinicians, scientists, and computational biologists. The successful candidate must be detail-oriented, organized and be willing to perform other tasks as required. This position will assist with 1) execution of bench level and research activities and 2) lab coordination. Research activities will be directed towards development of cellular assays and human cell models as well as carrying out high-throughput genetic screens.

• Theoretical and working knowledge in molecular biology and biochemistry.

• Demonstrated experience assisting with tissue culture including freezing, thawing, counting cells and splitting cultures.

• Ability to perform standard repetitive techniques that may be required in research protocols related to a specific lab. Demonstrated ability to read, interpret and apply protocols in conducting research. Demonstrated ability in following stepwise experimental protocols. Skill to troubleshoot adaptations of experimental protocols.

• Demonstrated experience in cellular assays.

• Demonstrated ability to work with human tissues.

• Demonstrated ability to read and use Material Safety Data Sheets. Demonstrated ability to follow established Safety and Biohazardous Material Guidelines.

• Demonstrated experience working in and maintaining a sterile environment.

• Demonstrated skill in accurate record keeping and ability to organize, analyze, and calculate data.

• Demonstrated experience with the operation of a personal computer and software application, such as Access, MS Word and Excel. Knowledge to work with and learn new software for analysis.

• Manual dexterity and legible handwriting. Ability to assist with general lab maintenance, including cleaning and restocking supplies and managing a regular schedule in the lab.

• Effectively in the work environment, as well as effectively and accurately document research procedures. Ability to read, comprehend and discuss research materials.

• Enthusiasm for learning new techniques and a genuine interest in scientific research. Willingness and ability to learn new skills, research methods, and scientific principles. Ability to train students incoming students.

• Good organizational and time management skills.

• Knowledge of UCSD Environmental Health and Safety requirements.

• Skill to plan and organize work assignments in an efficient and productive manner.

• Must be willing and able to work in BioSafety Level II plus environment.

• Must be willing biohazardous materials.

• Employment is subject to a criminal background check.