Research Laboratory Technician II

University of Southern California•Los Angeles, CA

9d•Onsite

About The Position

The Center for Craniofacial Molecular Biology (CCMB) at USC’s Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry is recruiting a Research Laboratory Technician II to join the laboratory of Dr. Yang Chai. Our laboratory is funded through federal and organization-sponsored research grants, many of which are from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. Basic research is conducted into developmental, biochemical, and molecular biological aspects of human development with a special emphasis on craniofacial structures in both health and disease. The Research Lab Technician II will participate directly in research projects in addition to supporting the daily operation of the laboratory. The successful candidate will work closely with postdoctoral research associates and other senior laboratory members to conduct experiments and, depending on experience and performance, may take primary responsibility for defined research projects under their supervision. The position is well suited for a motivated individual who is interested in developing research skills, learning new experimental approaches, and contributing intellectually and technically to ongoing research projects. We are particularly interested in candidates who are motivated to conduct research, can work independently after appropriate training, and are interested in taking increasing responsibility for research projects. Strong organizational, communication, record-keeping, problem-solving, and scientific thinking skills are preferred.

Requirements

B.S degree or higher in biology, molecular biology, developmental biology, biochemistry, biomedical sciences, or a related field.
Previous hands-on wet-laboratory research 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.

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with standard laboratory procedures, equipment, and research practices.
Hands-on experience with molecular biology, cell culture, histology, microscopy, or related experimental techniques is desirable.
Experience conducting research experiments and troubleshooting experimental procedures.
Experience working independently on a research project or a defined component of a larger project is preferred.
Experience with transgenic mouse colony management and/or mouse procedures is a plus.

Responsibilities

Conducts research experiments under the supervision of postdoctoral research associates and other senior research staff.
Assists with experimental planning, protocol optimization, troubleshooting, data collection, and analysis.
Assists with mouse colony management, including breeding and genotyping.
May perform mouse procedures and surgeries following appropriate training and approved protocols, as needed.
Participates in shared responsibilities necessary for the daily operation of the laboratory.
Maintains accurate and organized experimental records.
Maintains laboratory supplies and inventory.
Follows laboratory and USC safety requirements.