Research Lab Technician I

The USC Roski Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology is seeking a Research Lab Technician I to join its team.  

This researcher will be working in the lab of Dr. Kimberly Gokoffski whose research program is focused on the intractable problem of optic nerve regeneration.  In order to restore vision in patients who are blinded by optic neuropathies like glaucoma, the optic nerve, the cable the connects the eye to the brain, needs to be regenerated.  Dr. Gokoffski is taking an innovative approach to this problem by investigating the role of electrical fields in promoting retinal ganglion cell axon growth.  The lab technician will have the opportunity to work on an exciting project with tremendous clinical application from the ground up.

Job Summary :

Basic technician responsibilities will include making stock reagents, aliquoting stock reagents, washing lab ware, maintenance of stem cell line, and maintenance of animal colony. Depending on skill and interest, the lab technician will have the opportunity perform and direct experiments with human embryonic stem cells and perform surgeries on live animals (mouse and rat). Basic lab skills required include making stock reagents, performing dilutions, sterile tissue culture technique, and pipetting. Preferred but not required lab skills and experiences include familiarity with microscopy (fluorescence, confocal), immunofluorescence, PCR, Western Blot, animal husbandry. Overall, an interest and willingness to learn new techniques and work with animals and stem cells is all that is needed. Minimum 1 year commitment but prefer 2 or more.

Job Accountabilities include:

• Prepares experimental materials using laboratory protocols and safety guidelines.
• Handles and disposes of hazardous and non-hazardous materials in accordance with safety protocols.
• Sets up and operates standard laboratory equipment.
• Maintains accurate records of procedures used to conduct basic experiments.
• Performs limited routine analysis and provides basic interpretations.
• Prepares chemical solutions under the direction of an experienced technician.
• Stocks and maintains laboratory supplies. Monitors inventory levels and orders or secures supplies as needed.
• Maintains laboratory environment in orderly, operable condition.
• Learns basic laboratory safety and, if appropriate, basic radiation or blood borne pathogen safety under the direction of the USC Safety Office and more experienced laboratory staff.

Preferred Qualifications :

Preferred Education:  Associate's Degree; Specialized/Technical Training

Preferred Field of Expertise: Prefer familiarity with laboratory procedures and equipment

Applicant Attachments (Required):   Application/Resume

Applicant Attachments (Optional):  Cover Letter

Work Location: Mudd Memorial Research Bldg 315 (MMR)

Percentage of Time: 50% (Part Time); 18.75 hours

Posting Salary Range:  The salary rate range for this position is $21.07 - $24.00.  When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational

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Minimum Education: High school or equivalent, Combined experience/education as substitute for minimum education Minimum Experience: 6 - 12 months, Combined education/experience as substitute for minimum experience Minimum Field of Expertise: Ability to follow detailed instructions, oral and written