Research Lab Technician II

University of Southern California • Los Angeles, CA

17h

About The Position

The USC Alfred E. Mann School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Titus Family Department of Clinical Pharmacy, seeks a Research Lab Technician II to support studies in immunogenomics, cancer genomics, and therapeutics. The translational genomics and experimental therapeutics lab investigates novel therapeutic targets in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and develops therapeutic strategies. The technician will perform molecular, cellular, and in vivo experiments and support daily laboratory operations.

The role includes processing clinical samples; conducting molecular biology techniques; maintaining cell lines and primary cultures; assisting with leukemia mouse-model studies; supporting data analysis and bioinformatic workflows; and maintaining laboratory records, databases, supplies, equipment, and compliance. The technician will also prepare results for lab meetings and contribute to manuscripts under the direction of the Principal Investigator.

The hourly rate range is $26.00–$28.32. Applicants should submit a cover letter describing research experience and interests, a résumé or CV, and contact information for two to three references.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, immunology, or a related field; the posting also lists an associate’s degree, specialized/technical training, or combined experience/education as substitutes for minimum education.
• Hands-on laboratory experience with routine molecular biology and cell culture techniques.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience, as stated under Minimum Experience.
• Working knowledge of laboratory equipment and research protocols.
• Knowledge of computer analysis techniques and ability to provide routine analysis and interpretation of research data.
• Excellent organizational, record-keeping, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree or 1–2 years of research laboratory experience.
• Experience with flow cytometry, NGS sample preparation, or high-throughput assays.
• Experience with mouse handling and in vivo studies.
• Familiarity with basic data analysis tools such as R, Python, or GraphPad Prism, or interest in learning bioinformatics.
• Background in cancer biology or hematologic malignancies.

Responsibilities

• Process, bank, and track clinical samples, including blood and bone marrow, according to established protocols and regulatory requirements.
• Perform routine molecular biology techniques, including DNA/RNA extraction, PCR/qPCR, Western blotting, and preparation of samples and libraries for next-generation sequencing.
• Maintain cell lines and primary cell cultures; perform cell-based assays, including flow cytometry and high-throughput drug screening.
• Assist with preclinical studies in leukemia mouse models, including colony maintenance, dosing, monitoring, and tissue collection.
• Perform basic data analysis and assist with bioinformatic workflows under the guidance of senior lab members.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records, sample databases, and inventory; order supplies and reagents.
• Ensure compliance with biosafety, IACUC, and IRB protocols; maintain equipment and a safe, organized laboratory environment.
• Prepare figures and summaries of results for lab meetings and contribute to manuscripts under the direction of the Principal Investigator.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level