Microbiology Technician- Pediatrics - 140440

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 supervision, the Microbiology Technician works in the Department of Pediatrics in the School of Medicine. The project focuses on novel approaches to treating antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections by stimulating immune cell function.

The incumbent assists junior faculty, postdoctoral fellows, and graduate students, and in collaboration with biotechnology companies. The position has a primary function in the evaluation of novel anti-infective therapies that function to boost the innate immune activities of white blood cells. The position involves experimentation including human tissue culture and mouse models of bacterial infection and anti-infective therapy. Molecular genetics, microbiologic, cell biologic and immunological analyses are brought to bear on the project. The position also contributes to certain laboratory management duties that includes ordering, inventory, creation and management of microbial strain and plasmid databases, equipment upkeep, and help to oversee student lab assistants. Performs other duties as assigned.

• Theoretical knowledge of biochemistry and/or microbiology.

• Experience in the preparation of scientific reagents.

• Knowledge and experience with laboratory equipment, including centrifuges, bioguard hood, microscope, pipeters, autoclave, balances, incubator.

• General laboratory skills and safety training.

• Ability to evaluate and communicate scientific data.

• Ability to maintain data accurately and mathematical computation skills.

• General computer skills including word processing and graphics applications.

• Knowledge of sterile technique for bacterial and cell culture.

• Knowledge of principles underlying DNA, RNA, and protein analysis, PCR, and ELISA.

• Ability to assist in preparation of detailed and accurate scientific reports.

• Knowledge/experience to establish and work with lung organoids.

• Knowledge of Murine model of infection (Pneumonia, bacteremia, skin and UTI).

• Experience working with monoclonal antibody development pipeline.

• Knowledge of immunological profiling using flowcytometry.

• Experience with protein purification and HPLC analysis.

• Experience with mouse handling and experimentation.

• Experience with tissue culture.

• Employment is subject to a criminal background check.

• Occasional evenings and weekends may be required.

• Must be willing to work with hazardous materials.