Staff Research Associate I-SRA1

LUNDQUIST INSTITUTE FOR BIOMEDICAL INNOVATION AT HARBOR-UCLA•Torrance, CA

1d•$24 - $31•Onsite

About The Position

The Staff Research Associate provides technical and operational support for biomedical research studies and laboratory activities. Working under the direction of senior laboratory personnel, this position assists with molecular biology, protein analysis, cell culture, and specimen-processing activities; supports data organization and documentation; and helps maintain efficient laboratory operations. The role requires a foundational understanding of biological sciences, particularly molecular biology, and the ability to follow established laboratory protocols while contributing to high-quality research activities.

Requirements

Minimum of one (1) year of research laboratory experience, which may include academic, internship, or industry-based laboratory experience.
Foundational knowledge of molecular biology principles and laboratory techniques.
Experience performing or assisting with molecular and/or protein-based assays.
Experience with laboratory documentation, data entry, and organization of research records.
Experience handling biological samples in a laboratory environment.
Ability to follow detailed laboratory protocols and standard operating procedures.
Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and accuracy.
Ability to work independently on routine tasks while seeking guidance when appropriate.
Effective written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research team.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and basic data management tools.

Nice To Haves

Experience with PCR setup, DNA/RNA extraction, or related molecular biology techniques.
Experience with immunostaining, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, or protein-based assays.
Experience culturing mammalian cell lines.
Experience working with human specimens in a research or clinical laboratory setting.
Exposure to next-generation sequencing (NGS) assays or genomics-based laboratory techniques.
Coursework or research experience in molecular biology, cancer biology, genetics, immunology, or related disciplines.

Responsibilities

Assist senior laboratory staff with molecular biology, protein, and cellular assays according to established protocols.
Prepare samples, reagents, and materials necessary for laboratory experiments and research studies.
Perform routine molecular biology procedures, including PCR setup, nucleic acid preparation, and related laboratory techniques.
Support immunostaining, protein-based assays, and associated laboratory procedures.
Assist with maintenance and expansion of mammalian cell cultures following laboratory protocols and quality standards.
Receive, process, label, organize, and track human specimens and research samples in accordance with approved procedures and regulatory requirements.
Maintain accurate laboratory records, databases, and research documentation.
Organize, enter, and verify research data to support study reporting, analysis, and publication activities.
Assist with next-generation sequencing (NGS) workflows and related laboratory procedures, as assigned.
Operate laboratory equipment and report equipment issues or technical concerns to senior laboratory personnel.
Monitor laboratory inventory, stock supplies, and assist with ordering laboratory materials and reagents.
Follow all laboratory safety procedures, biosafety requirements, and institutional policies.
Participate in laboratory meetings, training activities, and professional development opportunities.
Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient laboratory environment.
Perform other duties as assigned in support of laboratory operations and research program objectives.