Stem Cell Research Associate - 139444

The Department of Neurosciences Center for Neural Repair studies mechanisms of neural repair and regeneration in CNS injury models using a combinatorial approach of stem cell, gene therapy, rehabilitation and axonal guidance.

The successful candidate will provide significant and original independent contributions towards multidisciplinary approaches using stem cells to study spinal cord injury in the Department of Neurosciences at the UCSD School of Medicine. Under general supervision, incumbent will undertake research projects in collaboration with the Principal Investigator making significant and innovative contributions pertaining to research and experiments on development of neural stem cells. Incumbent will independently perform routine cell culture (including expansion, passaging and freeze/thaw) of various human embryonic stem cell (hESC) cultures and related functions, and will independently design and execute specialized and complex experimental procedures involving stem cell differentiation. This will require mastery of standard and non-standard cell culture techniques including differentiation of hESCs into different central nervous system regional-specific neuronal progenitor cells and neurons and characterization of neuronal phenotypes by molecular analysis, flow cytometry and immunocytochemistry.

Responsibilities include maintaining detailed and accurate records, monitoring and maintaining inventory, and performing related molecular biology procedures. The incumbent will interpret, analyze, and maintain data using software and tools, read relevant literature and write manuscripts for publication. Additional duties include providing training and work direction to other lab staff on experimental techniques and use of equipment, and give project status presentations and participate in lab meetings and discussions.

• Strong theoretical knowledge and experience to participate in the development and successful execution of independent research acquired through a Bachelor's degree or higher in biology, neuroscience or related field and/or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Master's degree preferred.

• Experience with immunocytochemistry and histological staining techniques, and the demonstrated ability to design and development new techniques.

• Experience to run cell culture and with sterile techniques. Demonstrated ability to create standard media supplies. Experience to maintain and create primary cell lines, cell cultures and human stem cells.

• Experience to perform routine and non-routine histology, prepare staining solutions, perform Nissi labeling and histological analysis, and prepare buffers. Ability to train other lab members on these techniques.

• Experience to section biological tissue on microtome, cryostat, and vibratome.

• Demonstrated knowledge of neurotrophic factors in models of neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's Disease and neuroplaciticity.

• Demonstrated experience with lab equipment including light, fluorescent, and confocal microscopy and ability to train other lab personnel on their use. Ability to maintain and make basic repairs to lab equipment.

• Experience with research project requiring multiple occupational fields (molecular biology, cell culture, histology, animal experiments).

• Strong computer skills using MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, email system, and a variety of web-based programs. Demonstrated ability to perform standard computer tasks, and learn new programs/applications with minimal direction. Familiar with DNA analysis software and Photoshop.

• Excellent verbal, written, and electronic communication skills that facilitate professionalism, effectiveness, and courteousness. Ability and willingness to work independently and/or in a team framework in conjunction with principles of community and with a diverse population of staff, faculty, industry and others. Ability to effectively contribute to discussions regarding procedures and goals of unit.

• Proven ability to make innovative and independent significant contributions to research projects and protocols including development, design, and implementation into research.

• Knowledge of lab safety requirements and procedures including EH&S regulations and methods for handling, clean up, and waste disposal for biohazardous materials.

• Demonstrated ability to provide work directions to other staff researchers, students, and postdoctoral scholars on projects.

• Demonstrated ability to analyze, troubleshoot and develop protocols and adhere to regulatory procedures.

• Proven time management skills to successfully set priorities, meet established deadlines and recognize new problems with constantly changing priorities and frequent interruptions.

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

• Ability to maintain confidentiality with all matters related to research.

• Demonstrated ability to undertake research projects and work independently with limited supervision.

• Variation of work schedule may be necessary to complete experiments/projects.
• Availability to work on weekends and holidays if needed to complete experiments/projects.
• Must be willing to work with human embryonic stem cells in an animal research related environment.