The Department of Pediatrics is one of the largest departments within the School of Medicine with approximately 171 Faculty, 60 post- doctoral fellows (both MDs and PhDs) along with over 300 support staff (not including hospital staff). In addition, the Department has 57 clinical residents and fellows distributed across the Divisions. The missions of research, education and patient care are intertwined, and are integral to the goals of the department.

Under supervision, the Research Associate participates in animal husbandry, molecular / cell biology, and tissue processing and microscopy procedures that focus on tumor immunology in mouse models of pancreatic cancer. The incumbent has the authority to modify protocols as needed with supervision. This may include changing the protocol for mouse gneotyping and other lab protocols commonly used by the researcher. Trains technicians and fellows in basic and complex lab procedures, molecular, microscopy, and animal related procedures, such as basic pipet use, DNA preparation protocols, PCR, mouse tissue harvest and prep, cryotome sectioning, confocal microscopy, and mouse breeding and husbandry. Analyzes data and interprets results by using Imaris, Prism, Excel and other computer applications. Analyzes and interprets results to modify experiments accordingly. Contributes to manuscripts and grant proposals. Performs other duties as assigned.

• Theoretical and/or practical knowledge in cellular and molecular biology, immunology, or related field.

• Demonstrated experience with all aspects of mouse colony management including mouse genotyping, husbandry methods, breeding, weaning, tail clipping of offspring, surgical procedures and injections, and maintenance of water system, cage, and water bottles.

• Demonstrated experience performing molecular biology techniques including PCR, DNA preparation/extraction, and gel electrophoresis.

• Demonstrated experience in performing immunology and laboratory techniques and demonstrated experience to prepare buffers and solutions, as well as various staining solutions.

• Demonstrated ability to maintain accurate data records from detailed observation of experimentation, and to transcribe precise, cogent results for possible scientific journal publication.

• Demonstrated experience in clinical and/or research technical procedures, such as the developmental and production of transgenic mice, breeding colony management, blood and tissue collection. Proven experience and demonstrated theoretical knowledge of normal physiological data of rodents, particularly mice, and skill in the recognition of abnormal behavior and health.

• Demonstrated ability to exercise judgment, initiative, and resourcefulness in making decisions under supervision.

• Experience with UCSD Animal Subjects procedures.

• Demonstrated experience with general lab maintenance including cleaning, stocking supplies.

• Excellent communication skills to interact with faculty, staff, and students as well as appropriate campus department personnel. Skill and knowledge to collaborate with colleagues.

• Demonstrated experience with UCSD EH&S regulations and laboratory safety procedures including waste disposal.

• Demonstrated experience in understanding the concept of sterility and transfer of pathogens.

• Demonstrated ability to maintain effective working relationships with other staff members, students, faculty, and scientists.

• Demonstrated experience working with Macintosh OSX.

• Familiarity with University/NIH/AALAC policies and compliance procedures.

• Employment is subject to a criminal background check.

• Must be willing to work with small animals.

• Must be willing to work with hazardous materials (biological and chemical).

• Must be willing to work flexible schedule in order to complete experiments as necessary.