Staff Research Associate - 128863

This position is a 50% part-time limited position for 7 months with the possibility of extension/career conversion.

UC San Diego is a student-centered, research-focused, service-oriented public institution, recognized as one of the top 15 research universities worldwide. The University fosters a culture of collaboration that sparks innovative discoveries that advance society and drive economic impact. The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry (Chem/Biochem) is one of the largest and most complex departments on campus. Our department combines research on the most consequential and revelatory scientific areas with education aimed at building our future leaders and scientists.

Chem/Biochem strives to be a top-ranked and recognized leader in the chemical and biochemical sciences through transformative research and impactful educational programs. We are committed to excellence in teaching and mentoring excellence and supporting students and postdoctoral researchers in safe and inclusive environments as they prepare to become leaders in science and society. We value collegiality, equity and diversity with the Department, and promote a culture of collaboration and transparency. We aim to enhance our impact in local and global communities through partnerships with other educators, industry, government and professional societies.

Chemistry and Biochemistry is one of the largest and most complex departments on campus. The department’s organization is divided among three major academic sections each with its own leadership (Section Chair and Vice Chair) representation under the Department Chair: Physical, Analytical & Environmental (PAE); Biochemistry & Biophysics (BB); and finally Synthesis, Materials and Chemical Biology (SMCB). The department is comprised of 73 ladder rank faculty, an additional 15 in various instructional titles, and ~150 in academic research titles and postdoctoral scholars. The department is comprised of 100 career staff; ~60 temporary or student staff, and 400 Master’s and Ph.D. students. There are 1,700 undergraduate students enrolling in 5 majors with total annual course enrollments exceeding 27,000. Chem/Biochem manages $30 million annually in extramural funding and approximately $63 million in total annual expenditures. The Department occupies space in 7 buildings, totaling 237,000 ASF, including class laboratories and instructional support space, research labs, and recharge facilities.

Additional information can be found on our webpage at https://chemistry.ucsd.edu/ research organizations.

The Wang lab is interested in understanding the regulatory mechanisms underlying cell fate decision. Especially, we take a multi-scale approach that integrates computational and experimental investigation of epigenetic regulation in cell fate decision from molecular level to genomic level then to systems level. We aim to build computational and theoretical models to uncover fundamental principles that govern cell fate decision in development and cellular reprogramming and design strategies to intelligently manipulate cell state.

Under general supervision, incumbent will conduct research of performing genomic experiments and developing machine learning methods to analyze single cell genomic data and other epigenomic data. Incumbent will utilize a wide variety of standard methods/techniques such as deep learning, neural network, network biology, sequencing data analysis, and single cell genomics. Finally, incumbent will collaborate with other members of the lab, compile results, and be required to participate in lab meetings and seminars related to the projects.

• Demonstrated experience and skill with in graph neural network and other deep learning models.

• Experience with performing genomic experiments, analyzing single cell genomic and epigenomic data

• Demonstrated ability to program proficiently using python, Java or C.

• Experience and skill with MAC or PC programs, filemaking, spreadsheet, and graphics software; willingness and ability to update and increase computer skills and knowledge as needed.

• Theoretical and practical knowledge of bioinformatics acquired through a Bachelor's degree in bioinformatics, or a related field with a specialization in bioinformatics, and two years university level computational lab experience OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Demonstrated experience of independent research, scientific paper writing and presentation.

• Demonstrated successful, positive interpersonal oral and written communication skills using tact, diplomacy, discretion, and flexibility with diverse personalities and situations. Skill to interact effectively one-on-one and in group settings with faculty, academics, students, and staff including those of diverse ethnicity, culture, and foreign nationals.

• Demonstrated organizational skills, including ability to keep clear and accurate records and follow written and oral lab protocols. Must be flexible and able to function in a fast-paced and changing work environment.

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

• Ability to maintain confidentiality in matters related to work.

• Demonstrated knowledge, understanding and experience with Safety Data Sheets, hazard communication and Injury and Illness Prevention Program. Familiarity with a Chemical Hygiene Plan addressing safety precautions including appropriate clothing and shoes, safe handling of chemicals, use of protective items. Willingness and ability to keep safety training current and consistent with research involvement.

• Background Check required.

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).

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

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