Research Associate

The University of California, San Diego is a student-centered, research-focused, service-oriented public institution that provides opportunity for all. Recognized as one of the top 15 research universities worldwide, a culture of collaboration sparks discoveries that advance society and drive economic impact.

Participate in investigations on signaling pathways controlling liver fibrosis. Essential duties will include: Large scale isolation of human primary liver cells including enzymatic digestion, perfusion and gradient centrifugation. Large scale amplification, culture and characterization of primary cell types. Candidate will have extensive knowledge of cell isolation techniques and experience with small animal surgery. Familiarity with SOPs is required. DNA cloning and making plasmid DNA constructs using plasmid preparations and gel electrophoresis; experiments using bacteria in culture; experiments using adenovirus and lentivirus in cell culture; expanding adenovirus and lentivirus using 293 cells and purification of these viruses; purification and characterization of proteins using immunoprecipitation, SDS-PAGE, Coomassie Blue staining, and Western blotting; operation of confocal microscopy and imaging software; purification of RNA from cells and mouse tissues; reverse transcription of RNA to cDNA, and subsequent real time quantitative PCR; histology including tissue fixing, paraffin block embedding, sectioning and staining including H-E, Oil red O, Sirius red and immunohistochemistry; making cryosections from frozen block of mouse tissues; assist PI in reviewing and completing laboratory and scientific documents.

**Minimum Qualification:** * Theoretical understanding and practical knowledge of biology, molecular biology, and biochemistry attained through a Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Biochemistry or related field, or an equivalent combination of education and laboratory experience. * Knowledge and experience in primary cell isolation procedures. * Demonstrated experience performing cell culture techniques including large scale amplification, culture and characterization of human primary cell types, demonstrated ability working with sterile equipment and supplies. * Experience in small animal surgery techniques. * Demonstrated experience with standard biochemical and molecular biological laboratory procedures such as DNA cloning, gel electrophoresis (including knowledge of SDS-PAGE and Coomassie Blue Staining), PCR, RNA purification, reverse transcription, real time quantitative PCR, Western Blotting, ELISA and Histological analysis including paraffin and frozen block making, sectioning and staining. * Demonstrated skill performing mathematical calculations including computing molarities, pH’s, etc. * Demonstrated experience performing various biochemical laboratory techniques including pipetting, weighing, operating pH meters, centrifugation, and filtration. * Knowledge of Material Safety Data Sheets, hazard communication, and Injury and Illness Prevention Program; safety precautions including appropriate clothing and shoes, safe handling of chemicals, and use of protective items such as gloves and goggles. **Special Condition:** * Must be willing to work with human tissue. * Must be willing to work with cells, viruses and bacteria. * Must be willing to work with tissue processing for histology. * Must be willing to periodically work evenings and weekends if necessary for experiments.