Staff Research Associate I - PHARMACOLOGY

UCSD Layoff from Career Appointment : Apply by 6/18/2026 for consideration with preference for rehire. All layoff applicants should contact their Employment Advisor.

Reassignment Applicants : Eligible Reassignment clients should contact their Disability Counselor for assistance.

DESCRIPTION

The UCSD Department of Pharmacology is one of two basic science units in the School of Medicine where world-class researchers investigate the effects of chemical interventions on biological systems. The faculty are internationally renowned for their strength in elucidating basic cellular and molecular mechanisms of signal transduction that lead to innovative drug target identification and ultimately to cutting edge drug discovery. The faculty also 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 a staff of more than 50 research technicians and 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 exploratory research and educational environment.

Under supervision, this position will work in a laboratory that is interested in defining the underlying mechanisms associated with severe neonatal hyperbilirubinemia (SNH) and Toxicant Associated Steatohepatitis (TASH) induced by contact from environmental toxicants.

The incumbent will assist in experiments requiring the treatment of mice with inducing agents, and experiments following the isolation of tissues to examine gene expression patterns. The position will also assist in performing standard techniques in the following areas, such as cell culture, western blot, isolation of RNA and DNA. Experiments will consist of quantitative isolation of RNA and protein, and the use of these reagents in PCR and real-time PCR reactions in addition to Western blot analysis. Other techniques such as the culturing of differentiated cells is also expected. Methods in the isolation of primary cells, both liver hepatocytes and intestinal cells will be an important part of the methods that will be learned. Assist laboratory manager and/or research staff with experiments and maintaining PI/Professors laboratory. Performs other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Theoretical knowledge of biology, chemistry, or biochemistry (or equivalent) and/or major in related field.

• Fundamental understanding of tissue culture and sterilization procedures.

• Knowledge of specialized scientific terminology relating to topics of molecular and cell biology, physiology, pharmacology.

• Ability and willingness to learn new laboratory techniques, and operation of labequipment rapidly and as needed.

• Skill and ability to operate standard equipment of the contemporarybiochemistry/molecular biology laboratory.

• Ability to accurately maintain detailed computerized records and hard copy files of experimental records, inventory, and facility usage mouse genealogy, etc. and give oral presentations on the progress of research.

• Excellent interpersonal communication skills (English) to interact wellwith other lab members to facilitate communication about procedures and requirements. Ability to discuss and understand day-to-day laboratory affairs, research plans,results and ideas with PI & other personnel in a constructive, professional andpleasant manner.

• Ability to independently use Apple and PC computers and associated wordprocessing, spreadsheet software and databases with willingness and ability toupdate and increase skills and knowledge as needed.

• Knowledge of MSDS's (Material Safety Data Sheets), and the hazardcommunication & Injury and Illness Prevention Program. Knowledge of laboratory safety precautions and proper handling of chemicals & biohazardous materials, including appropriate clothing and shoes and use of other protective items.

• Ability and willingness to read scientific papers as directed in order to stay abreast of developments within the field and relating to current experiments.

• Skill in working in a fast paced, research environment with frequent interruptions while completing projects and work assignments in a timely and efficient manner. Ability to organize, prioritize, and meet deadlines.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience in inflammation, metabolism, toxicology, and cancer biology. Previous laboratory experience.

• Knowledge of mouse colony maintenance, breeding and handling. Husbandry experience preferred.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

• Employment is subject to a criminal background check.

• Occasional evenings and weekends may be required.

• Must be willing to work with hazardous materials.

• Requires exceptional manual dexterity and the individual must be comfortable working with animals.

Pay Transparency Act

Annual Full Pay Range: $59,905 - $71,451 (will be prorated if the appointment percentage is less than 100%)

Hourly Equivalent: $28.69 - $34.22

Factors in determining the appropriate compensation for a role include experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. The Hiring Pay Scale referenced in the job posting is the budgeted salary or hourly range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position. The Annual Full Pay Range may be broader than what the University anticipates to pay for this position, based on internal equity, budget, and collective bargaining agreements (when applicable).