Lab Research Specialist 5

Job Title

Lab Research Specialist 5

Job Description

The Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics (MIMG) is ranked among the top 10 microbiology departments in the country. We are proud of our internationally recognized facultywhose research funding, in total, is among the highest in the nation; and whose research spans the disciplines of structural biology, cell biology, bacterial physiology, bacterial development and gene regulation, bacterial pathogenesis, virology and viral pathogenesis, molecular and cellular parasitology, immunology, molecular genetics, stem cell biology, cancer biology, and computational biology. We leverage this scientific diversityalong with our partnerships with other institutes, centers and departments at UCLAto further cutting-edge, interdisciplinary research and enrich teaching. The MIMG department's mission is to provide the highest quality research and education possible in the fields of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, informed by diverse scientific viewpoints. To meet this goal, we shall foster an inclusive climate and recruit a diverse group of scientists, educators, and students, who will address the most relevant problems in microbial pathogenesis, host cell biology, immune defense, and the host-pathogen interface.

Position Summary

The Lab Research Specialist 5 will perform professional work in support of biological scientific research and contribute to the development of research goals for the Owen Witte laboratory in the Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics (MIMG). Working collaboratively with the investigator, the incumbent will determine the most suitable methods to be used in research; independently perform scientific investigative procedures requiring application of professional judgment; interpret experimental results and determine whether they are consistent with experimental goals; review pertinent literature for information that will further research goals; and prepare reports of research for presentation or publication. The incumbent will be expected to perform flow cytometric analyses and fluorescence activated cell sorting using multi-laser cell sorters on human and non-human animal cells including embryonic and other pluripotent stem cells to find, characterize and isolate stem cells and progenitors from both mouse and human origins. Work with investigators to establish experimental design. Maintain flow cytometer's peak performance and optimize instrument configurations for specialized investigations. Operate and maintain FACS instruments, coordinate instrument service and trouble-shoot problems. Maintain accurate experimental and machine quality control (Q.C.) records, including Biosafety measurement for aerosol containment. Perform and train investigators in data analysis using specialized software programs. Develop mechanisms for tracking instrument use, Flow Resource SOPs, applications, and user qualifications.

Salary & Compensation

*UCLA provides a full pay range. Actual salary offers consider factors, including budget, prior experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business considerations. Salary offers at the top of the range are not common. Visit UC Benefit package to discover benefits that start on day one, and UC Total Compensation Estimator to calculate the total compensation value with benefits.

Qualifications

• Experience in immunofluorescent techniques and flow cytometer operations with human and non-human animal cells including embryonic and other pluripotent stem cells. (Required)
• Experience in operating a fluorescence activated cell sorter and fluorescence activated cell analyzers (Required)
• Experience in an immunologic laboratory performing cell surface staining with monoclonal antibodies and flow cytometric analysis. (Required)
• Skill in laboratory safety protocols including handling and disposal of infectious specimens. (Required)
• Skill in reading and following instructions in laboratory protocols and other scientific documents; skill in creating and editing lab SOPs, applications, and user qualifications; oral and written technical and non-technical communication skills. (Required)
• Skill in asceptic techniques including working with cells, microliter volumes and centrifuges. (Preferred)
• Skill to train others and cooperate with a research team; skill in providing appropriate education and training of users. (Required)
• Skill in math including computing ratios, percentages. (Required)
• Skill in working with computers. (Required)
• Ability to perform effectively under conditions of fluctuating workload and with frequent distractions; skill in organization and priority setting which accurately reflects the relative importance of tasks; ability to modify work schedule. (Required)
• Skill in working with minimal supervision to carry out assigned work. Skill in recognizing problems and aberrant results and taking appropriate action including asking questions or notifying the laboratory supervisor. (Required)
• College level courses in most of the following areas: biology, biochemistry, immunology. (Required)
• Skill in the use of balance and pH meter for solution preparation. (Required)
• Skill in performing non-human animal model surgeries and related tissue preparation. (Required)

Education, Licenses, Certifications & Personal Affiliations

• Bachelor's Degree In related area and / or equivalent experience / training (Required)
• Master's Degree In related area and / or equivalent experience / training (Required)
• PhD PhD or equivalent in biological sciences (Preferred)

Special Conditions for Employment

• Background Check: Continued employment is contingent upon the completion of a satisfactory background investigation.

Schedule

8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Union/Policy Covered

99-Policy Covered