SRA 4 (Staff Scientist- Tarantal Research Program)

Reporting to the PI and Laboratory Manager, provide technical, scientific, and organizational assistance to the operation of the laboratory’s research activities focused on regenerative medicine and gene therapy in translational preclinical models. Provide technical support on multi-disciplinary collaborative research projects under a central services model and develop and apply new techniques applicable to stem/progenitor cell culture and regenerative medicine research. Perform state-of-the-art services, aid in the conduct of complex research projects in collaboration with academic supervisors, making significant contributions to research, and develop new techniques and technologies relevant to the research program and Translational Human Pluripotent Stem Cell Shared Research Facility (TSRF) operations and mission.

Provide advanced level of research laboratory and technical support to assigned laboratory projects where a high level of technical skill, knowledge, and attention to detail is required and establishment of strictly defined laboratory practices according to established protocols and standardized operating procedures are essential to the ongoing management of laboratory operations. This includes, providing oversight of assigned projects as requested and to support studies focusing on cell- and gene-based therapies in the nonhuman primate model to include oversight of data collection, entry, and analysis; troubleshoot and develop new techniques such as those related to immunohistochemistry and histologic methods; assist with writing manuscripts and reports; and develop data systems for collection and analysis of data. Perform work independently following weekly communications and regular meetings with supervisor and senior staff. In cooperation and collaboration with Lab Manager and PI, review and evaluate relevant procedures to confirm they are performed in an appropriate and timely manner and with strict attention to detail and according to laboratory protocols, and that samples and data are collected and stored in the highest quality manner; order and maintain supplies and coordinate inventory records with documentation according to good laboratory practice (GLP) standards; maintain outstanding working relationships with all laboratory and affiliated laboratory members; and follow all UC, Campus, and Primate Center guidelines in performing tasks, with consultation of Lab Manager and PI regularly on activities and documentation.

Department Purpose

The California National Primate Research Center (CNPRC) is an Organized Research Unit which conducts interdisciplinary research programs on significant human health related problems where non-human primates are the animal models of choice. In addition to its major efforts in the area of research, the CNPRC is also committed to its missions of teaching and service

Applications will be screened on a weekly basis. This position can be filled prior to the remove by date.

Position Information

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

·         Position requires the performance of repetitive tasks and procedures for long periods of time and operating and maintaining equipment, and safely lifting and carrying up to 30 pounds.

·         Perform assigned duties in BioSafety Level 2 and 2+ conditions where non-human primates may be either naturally or experimentally infected with potentially hazardous infectious agents such as HIV, SIV, CMV, Zika virus, or Herpes B virus.

·         Wear protective clothing for extended periods of time including gown or Tyvek jumpsuit, lab coats, gloves, masks, face shields, booties, and head covers.

·         Use and disposal of radioactive isotopes, hazardous materials and other environmental health and safety procedures.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

·         Measles vaccination or proof of illness required. This position is subject to Medical Surveillance procedures and review in accordance with Federal and State Laws and Regulations and University Policy. -Perform assigned duties in BioSafety Level 2+ facilities where non-human primates may be either naturally or experimentally infected with potentially hazardous infectious agents such as SIV, CMV, Zika virus, or Herpes B virus.

·         Work with human and nonhuman primate specimens and chemical agents. Position may require employee to work with or be in areas where hazardous materials and/or infectious diseases are present. In such instances, employee will be required to wear protective clothing for personal protection from infectious diseases and animals.

·         Work irregular hours (early mornings, early evening, and/or weekends and holidays, as needed).

·         California National Primate Research Center employees are directly or indirectly engaged in the performance of work on Federal or State contracts and grants as well as periodically come into contact with controlled substances; and are expected to abide by the UC Policy on Substance Abuse, the Federal Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988, and the State Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1990.

·         The Smoke and Tobacco Free Environment policy is intended to provide a healthier, safer, and more productive work and learning environment for the entire UC community. The University of California prohibits smoking and tobacco use at all University owned or leased properties, or facilities operated by UC staff or faculty. Smoking and tobacco use are strictly prohibited in indoor and outdoor spaces, parking lots, residential space, and University vehicles. https://ucdavispolicy.ellucid.com/documents/view/271

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Education/Experience:

·         Master’s degree in Physiology or Molecular or Cellular Biology with an emphasis in cell biology and research with animal models. Applied expertise in regenerative medicine research with human pluripotent and stem/progenitor cells. Applied expertise in cell culture and cell populations with demonstrated meticulous sterile technique.

·         Expertise in drafting text and figures for manuscripts for publication in scientific journals. Experience in conducting sophisticated research activities, which include the design, implementation, and publication of studies of the highest quality and scientific research integrity.

·         Applied expertise with molecular and cellular techniques including, but not limited to, quantitative real-time RT-PCR. Expertise in morphology, stereology, and microscopy. Experience in developing a recharge structure and maintain proper record keeping for both the scientific aspects of each project as well as the administrative details as it relates to core services.

·         Experience in advanced computer-based skills in both MacIntosh and PC platforms, and a variety of software applications (Microsoft Suite, PowerPoint, Photoshop, Illustrator) and to navigate extensive scientific internet searches. Scientific experience in facilitating training of students at a variety of levels, including undergraduate and graduate students and postdoctoral students across academic and medical education disciplines.

Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA):

·         Demonstrated ability to work in a service core operation ensuring quality assurance/quality control. In depth knowledge of laboratory safety and proper use, handling, monitoring, measurement and disposal of radioisotopes, carcinogens, and biohazardous substances.

·         Extensive demonstrated organizational skills for efficient operation and ability to pay strict attention to detail and implement the required activities associated with sample collection, sample processing, data collection, data summary, and to accommodate changes readily and efficiently in project needs; establish priorities; and meet deadlines with strict attention to efficiencies and level of detail.

·         Skill to research and understand scientific journals and articles relevant to experimental protocols. Skills in training staff and trainees in science-related protocols and organizational strategies, and appropriate laboratory practices and protocols including maintaining laboratory notebooks.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Preferred Education/Experience:    

·         PhD in Physiology or Molecular/Cellular Biology with an emphasis in cell biology.

·         Advance level of expertise in developing new cell and related molecular assays.

·         Prior experience in handling human and animal tissues.

·         Applied expertise in executing complex and multiple experiments simultaneously in an efficient manner, following all required procedures with strict attention to detail and ensuring quality assurance/quality control.

·         Experience in the maintaining proper documentation of all experimentation within a scientific notebook/lab notebook.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA):

·         Advanced working knowledge of sterile technique and containment for BSL-2+ infectious agents.

·         Critical thinking and troubleshooting skills to follow protocols succinctly, identify problems, discuss potential protocol modifications before implementing any changes with research team and implement appropriate solutions when requested.

·         Applied aptitude for focused logical problem solving in a multidisciplinary team setting which includes having effective oral and written communication skills, mathematical skills, and the effectiveness to work independently and to work as part of a team.

·         Familiarity with UC accounting procedures.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Background Check

This position is a critical position and subject to a background check. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of background investigation including criminal history and identity checks.

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The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer advancing inclusive excellence.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories covered by the UC nondiscrimination policy.