Lab Assistant - 128641

UCSD Layoff from Career Appointment: Apply by 3/13/24 for consideration with preference for rehire. All layoff applicants should contact their Employment Advisor.

Special Selection Applicants: Apply by 3/25/24. Eligible Special Selection clients should contact their Disability Counselor for assistance.

The Lab Assistant will assist the Lovett-Barron lab members in research on the neural basis of visual behavior in zebrafish (Danio rerio). The Lab Assistant is responsible for the care and maintenance of zebrafish colonies (feeding, cleaning, breeding, cataloguing, maintaining), and assist with a research project on the neurobiology of color vision (behavioral experiments, histology, molecular labeling, imaging).

In addition, the Lab Assistant will perform routine laboratory duties such as order and maintain lab equipment, supplies, and records; prepare buffers, media, and solutions; and perform other general lab duties as needed.

• Graduation from high school or a GED and two years of laboratory experience OR two years of college including courses in evolution, molecular biology, genomics, ecology OR an equivalent combination of education and experience

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

• Experience with zebrafish, especially molecular and behavioral experiments in larvae

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

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

• Skill to follow multistep assays and procedures.

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

• Experience using MAC or PC, 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.

• 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.

• 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 able to lift and handle aquaculture equipment.

• Background check required.

Pay Transparency Act

Annual Full Pay Range: $44,662 - $52,513 (will be prorated if the appointment percentage is less than 100%)

Hourly Equivalent: $21.39 - $25.15

Factors in determining the appropriate compensation for a role include experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. The Hiring Pay Scale referenced in the job posting is the budgeted salary or hourly range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position. The Annual Full Pay Range may be broader than what the University anticipates to pay for this position, based on internal equity, budget, and collective bargaining agreements (when applicable).

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 .

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, gender identity or sexual orientation. For the complete University of California nondiscrimination and affirmative action policy see: http://www-hr.ucsd.edu/saa/nondiscr.html

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