RESEARCH ASSOCIATE I - PROTEOMICS

Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute•San Diego, CA

3d•$22 - $30•Onsite

About The Position

Sanford Burnham Prebys is seeking a Research Associate I to join its state-of-the-art Proteomics Core Facility. This role involves performing high-quality sample preparation for downstream mass spectrometry-based proteomics analyses. The Research Associate I will collaborate with Proteomics Specialists and other Core staff to process a wide variety of biological samples using established and emerging proteomics workflows. Primary responsibilities include protein extraction, digestion, enrichment, and other sample preparation techniques, as well as operating automated liquid handling platforms. The successful candidate will help ensure the consistent delivery of high-quality samples for downstream LC-MS/MS analysis while maintaining rigorous quality standards and laboratory organization. The Proteomics Core Facility is equipped with advanced automation systems and mass spectrometers. This position offers an opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge biomedical research and provides opportunities for professional development, technical training, and co-authorship on collaborative publications. The candidate must be organized, adaptable, and able to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced, service-oriented environment with meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to reproducible, high-quality results.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, chemistry, or a related life science field is required.
One (1) to three (3) years of relevant laboratory experience in biochemistry, molecular biology, proteomics, or a related discipline; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and/or experience from which comparable knowledge, skills, and abilities have been attained.
Experience with protein sample preparation techniques and standard biochemical laboratory methods.
Working knowledge of techniques such as protein extraction, protein quantification, enzymatic digestion, immunoprecipitation, affinity purification, SDS-PAGE, Western blotting, and protein purification.
Experience following standard operating procedures (SOPs) with strong attention to detail and reproducibility.
Ability to maintain accurate laboratory records and manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented, service-focused environment.
Demonstrated willingness to learn new laboratory techniques and adapt to evolving technologies.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and electronic record-keeping systems.
Ability to maintain a safe, organized, and efficient laboratory environment while adhering to institutional safety policies and regulations.
Commitment to providing high-quality scientific support and customer service to a diverse research community.

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with mass spectrometry-based proteomics workflows, including LC-MS/MS sample preparation, quantitative proteomics (e.g., TMT or label-free), automated liquid handling systems, Orbitrap mass spectrometry platforms, or proteomics data analysis software (e.g., Proteome Discoverer, MaxQuant, Skyline).

Responsibilities

Perform sample preparation for mass spectrometry-based proteomics analyses, including protein extraction, quantification, reduction/alkylation, enzymatic digestion, peptide cleanup, fractionation, enrichment, and other established workflows.
Operate and maintain automated liquid handling systems (e.g., Agilent AssayMap Bravo, SEER SP100, and other laboratory automation platforms) following established standard operating procedures.
Prepare reagents, buffers, standards, and quality control samples, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and reproducibility across projects.
Maintain detailed experimental records, sample tracking, and laboratory documentation in accordance with Core Facility policies and quality standards.
Perform routine quality control procedures and assist with troubleshooting sample preparation workflows to ensure high-quality downstream mass spectrometry analyses.
Assist with the routine maintenance, calibration, and organization of laboratory equipment and workspaces; monitor laboratory supplies and coordinate inventory and reagent replenishment.
Collaborate closely with Proteomics Specialists and Core Facility staff to support diverse research projects from academic and industry investigators.
Contribute to the development, optimization, and validation of new sample preparation workflows and automation protocols as needed.
Assist with data organization, preparation of technical summaries, and documentation of experimental results.
Adhere to institutional safety guidelines, laboratory best practices, and established standard operating procedures.
Perform other duties as assigned to support the mission and operations of the Proteomics Core Facility.