Staff Research Associate - 133990

The Staff Research Associate will assist the Principal Investigators and other lab members in research on the effects of climate change on neurological phenotypes in threespine stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus).

Incumbent is responsible for the experimental care and maintenance of the stickleback colony and associated facility (feeding, cleaning, breeding, cataloguing, maintaining), and will assist with molecular biology tasks including cloning, embryo injections, genotyping, nucleotide extraction (DNA/RNA), quantification and library preparation, molecular labeling.

There will also be tasks related to specimen preparation and curation including histology, staining, dissection and photography. The Staff Research associate will perform routine laboratory duties such as ordering and maintenance of lab equipment, supplies and records; serve as lab safety coordinator; maintain cleanliness of lab; prepare buffers, media, and solutions; and perform other general lab duties as needed. Incumbent will train lab members on fish husbandry and lab safety protocols.

• Theoretical and practical background and knowledge in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Neurobiology and/or Evolutionary Biology acquired through a BS degree or higher in Biology or related fields OR an equivalent combination of education and laboratory experience.

• College level course or equivalent in general laboratory techniques and molecular techniques including the ability to prepare solutions and use a pH meter

• Demonstrated ability to use standard lab equipment such as centrifuge, microscope, balances, etc.

• Skill and ability to follow multistep assays and procedures.

• Proven ability and organizational skills to keep accurate records of scientific data in well-organized lab notebook.

• Demonstrated experience and skill using MAC or PC programs, including Microsoft Office.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills. Good interpersonal communication skills including tact, diplomacy, and flexibility with students, staff, faculty, and visitors of various cultures and backgrounds.

• Demonstrated knowledge of Material Safety Data Sheets, hazard communication and Injury and Illness Prevention Program. Knowledge of laboratory safety precautions including appropriate clothing and shoes, safe handling of chemicals, use of protective items such as gloves and goggles, etc. Knowledge of safety procedures using chemicals and radioactive material.

• Knowledge of purchasing and reimbursement procedures. Skill in maintaining steady levels of lab supplies, maintaining purchasing records, and training others in purchasing procedures.

• Willingness and demonstrated ability to embrace and consistently uphold the principles of community for a collaborative work environment.

• Proven ability to learn new experimental methods, and work independently or collaboratively with other lab members, with accuracy and attention to detail.

• Skill and ability to train lab members on fish husbandry techniques and lab safety protocols.

• Practical competency in the handling, breeding, and rearing of fish.

• Experience with fish as a research model.

• Experience with behavioral experiments, optogenetic manipulations, and multiphoton microscopy.

• Demonstrated laboratory experience with basic and general techniques in molecular biology including DNA and RNA preparation and extraction, molecular cloning, gel electrophoresis, PCR, etc.

• Must be willing to work occasional overtime (evening or weekend) based on needs of experiments.

• Must be able to work safely with lab chemicals.

• Must be willing and able to work with fish as a primary research subject.

• Must be willing to euthanize fish and handle preserved specimens.

• Must be able to lift and handle aquaculture equipment.

• Background check required.

If employed by the University of California, you will be required to comply with our Policy on Vaccination Programs, which may be amended or revised from time to time. Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements.

To foster the best possible working and learning environment, UC San Diego strives to cultivate a rich and diverse environment, inclusive and supportive of all students, faculty, staff and visitors. For more information, please visit UC San Diego Principles of Community.

UC San Diego is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status.

For the University of California's Affirmative Action Policy please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/4010393/PPSM-20
For the University of California's Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination

UC San Diego is a smoke and tobacco free environment. Please visit smokefree.ucsd.edu for more information.

Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.

a. "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer. For reference, below are UC's policies addressing some forms of misconduct:

• UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
• UC Anti-Discrimination Policy
• Abusive Conduct in the Workplace