Research Associate - Ophthalmology - 139234

The Viterbi Family Department of Ophthalmology and Shiley Eye Institute at the University of California San Diego (UCSD) is an internationally recognized center conducting basic, translational and clinical science research on eye diseases.

The Borooah Lab at UC San Diego is seeking a highly motivated Research Associate to join our collaborative research team. Our lab conducts translational research aimed at developing novel treatments for retinal diseases. This position offers the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in stem cell disease modeling, gene therapy, CRISPR-based gene editing, antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) therapy, and regenerative medicine in an academic research setting.

Under supervision, the Research Associate will support research studies focused on understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying eye diseases and supporting the development of new therapeutic approaches. The role is primarily hands-on and involves learning and assisting in core molecular and cellular biology techniques, including DNA and RNA extraction, PCR and qPCR, Western blotting, and immunocytochemistry. A key component of this position includes working with cell cultures, such as assisting with the maintenance of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) lines and supporting the differentiation and use of 3D retinal organoids as disease models.

Additional responsibilities include following established laboratory protocols with attention to detail, assisting in the optimization of experimental workflows, and assisting with collecting, organizing, and documenting data for research reports, publications, and grant applications. The Research Associate will also help maintain research records and databases, support general laboratory organization and upkeep, and assist with the training of students or new lab members as needed. Other duties as assigned.

*Theoretical knowledge of a life science as is typically acquired by a Bachelor's Degree in a field related to the research being conducted such as biology, genetics, molecular biology or biochemistry or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

*Knowledge and experience with basic and general techniques in molecular biology.

*Ability to work with minimum supervision and to work closely and collaboratively with others including the ability to follow written and oral instructions.

*Ability to prepare solutions at proper concentrations and perform accurate calculations.

*Ability to communicate clearly and interact with colleagues and collaborators.

*Ability to read and interpret protocols and policies.

*Experience with personal computers. Ability to use database and spreadsheet.

• Experience in general laboratory techniques and molecular techniques; biochemistry, molecular biology, basic genetics.

• Experience with measuring, weighing, and mixing chemicals.

• Experience in sterile technique to culture cells.

• Must be willing to work in patient and animal-related research environment.

• Job offer is contingent upon satisfactory clearance based on Background Check results.

If employed by the University of California, you will be required to comply with our Policy on Vaccination Programs, which may be amended or revised from time to time. Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements.

If applicable, life-support certifications (BLS, NRP, ACLS, etc.) must include hands-on practice and in-person skills assessment; online-only certification is not acceptable.

UC San Diego Health Sciences is comprised of our School of Medicine, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, The Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science, and our Student Health and Well-Being Department. We have long been at the forefront of translational - or "bench-to-bedside" - research, transforming patient care through discovery and innovation leading to new drugs and technologies. Translational research is carried out every day in the hundreds of clinical trials of promising new therapies offered through UC San Diego Health, and in the drive of our researchers and clinician-scientists who are committed to having a significant impact on patient care. We invite you to join our team!

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The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.

For the University of California's Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination

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UC San Diego Health maintains a marijuana and drug free environment. Employees may be subject to drug screening.

Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts an offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of substantiated misconduct with a previous employer.

a. "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies governing employee conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, or discrimination, as defined by the employer. For reference, below are UC's policies addressing some forms of misconduct:

• UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
• UC Anti-Discrimination Policy
• Abusive Conduct in the Workplace