Staff Research Associate - 128450

University of California, San Diego, United States

Updated: about 2 months ago
Location: La Jolla, CALIFORNIA
Deadline: ;

Incumbent will assist the PI with research investigating chemical biology and epigenetic memory in plant development and stress response. A major focus of the project will be growing Setaria and maize in different environmental conditions and quantifying traits such as growth and yield.

The lab performs chemical biology in plants with the goal to better understand developmental processes (particularly root development) and develop new strategies to increase agricultural sustainability, particularly during abiotic stress. The Staff Research Associate will be responsible for plant care (including seed germination, regular maintenance of growing plants and plant stocks, seed collection, plant transformation, and tissue harvesting and analysis).

The incumbent will also perform field and greenhouse experiments and maintain a detailed record of plants and their progeny. The incumbent will also assist with standard chemistry and molecular biology techniques, including the preparation of chemical reagents, pH measurements, and RNA and DNA isolation. The incumbent will be expected to be an active participant in lab meetings and journal clubs and maintain a detailed record of experimental results.

The incumbent will also assist with the following tasks: ordering lab supplies, maintaining lab equipment, organizing the lab inventory, preparing buffer/stock solutions, and training undergraduate lab assistants.


  • Theoretical and practical background and knowledge of plant biology acquired through a BS in Biology or related field, and/or an equivalent combination of education and laboratory experience

  • Experience with planting, maintaining, and harvesting plants for research (preferably maize and/or setaria)

  • Experience in quantitative phenotypic analysis of plant phenotypes, such as growth, yield, chlorophyll content, and architecture

  • Experience in working with chemicals and preparing chemical solutions

  • Experience in tissue collection and chemical extractions of tissue

  • Experience with basic molecular biology laboratory equipment such as centrifuges, microscopes, analytical balances, pH meter, pipetting equipment, etc.

  • Demonstrated ability to record scientific data in an organized and reliable fashion.

  • Demonstrated ability to keep clear and accurate records.

  • Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work as part of a research team

  • Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines and set priorities

  • Demonstrated skills to read and follow research protocols and work effectively with minimal instruction

  • Experience and skill with MS Office programs, data analysis software (such as GraphPad), and other types of software related to research

  • Excellent organizational and administrative skills. Demonstrated skill to set up and maintain computerized and hard copy record keeping systems, and keep clear and accurate records.

  • Demonstrated ability to perform independent research, including planning and executing experiments, troubleshooting experimental procedures, and analyzing data

  • Experience in sterile technique

  • Experience and knowledge of proper handling, storage, and disposal of chemicals, biochemicals, hazardous chemicals, and biohazardous materials

  • Knowledge, understanding, and experience with Safety Data Sheets, hazard communication, and general lab safety protocols, including appropriate attire, use of protective items, and use of protective equipment.

  • Basic knowledge of accounting, billing practices, purchasing, and ordering lab supplies and equipment

  • Good eyesight (normal or corrected) to distinguish subtle variations in plant phenotypes and environmental conditions

  • Willingness to learn new techniques and theories

  • Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly in writing and speaking about scientific research

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

  • Experience working with Arabidopsis, including sterilizing and plating seeds, planting, maintaining, and harvesting seeds


    • Pay Transparency Act

    Annual Full Pay Range: $53,766 - $64,143 (will be prorated if the appointment percentage is less than 100%)

    Hourly Equivalent: $25.75 - $30.72

    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).


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