Laboratory Assistant - 138039

The Moores Cancer Center (MCC) is one of just 57 NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers in the United States and the only one in San Diego County. As a consortium cancer center, it is a collaborative partnership between the UCSD: encompassing 28 departments, 6 schools (School of Medicine, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Public Health, Jacobs School of Engineering, School of Biological Sciences & the School of Physical Sciences), UCSD Health oncology hospitals and clinics; the basic and public health research and outreach of San Diego State University (SDSU), and the basic and translational research of the La Jolla Institute of Immunology (LJI). These various programs and units are all dedicated to fulfilling the Moores Cancer Center's mission of reducing cancer's burden. As such, it ranks among the top centers in the nation conducting the continuum of cancer research, providing advanced patient care, and serving the community through outreach and education programs. As a top-ranking, future-oriented organization, we offer challenging career opportunities in a fast-paced and innovative environment. Moores Cancer Center follows a progressive philosophy of career-path development for its employees including opportunities for cross-training, professional development, and progressive responsibility.

MCC's mission is to transform cancer care in our catchment area and beyond by driving exceptional scientific discoveries and innovations in prevention, detection, care, and training. MCC will make a global impact on improving health by reducing cancer burden through accelerated discovery and translation, compassionate and interdisciplinary care, education and community engagement, with the foundation of our core values - Excellence, Innovation and Risk-Taking, Collaboration, Diversity and Service.

The pancreatic cancer program at Moores Comprehensive Cancer Center at UC San Diego has several projects that investigate specific aspects of pancreatic cancer biology and focus on developing new, more effective therapies. Within the lab, we generate and utilize various cancer models, including genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs), patient-derived xenografts, primary tumor organoids, and patient-derived cell lines to study pancreatic cancer genetics, development, and chemoresistance.

Under close technical supervision, assist in characterizing the impact of the germline BRCA2 mutation on pancreatic cancer initiation and progression through preclinical studies using GEMMs. Support research by processing PDAC patient blood samples to isolate DNA for long-read sequencing and PBMCs for immunological and biological analyses. Contribute to recombinant DNA work and genome engineering. Perform a variety of cell culture techniques, including flow cytometry for cell surface protein expression, cell propagation, contaminant testing, and cryopreservation. Assist with mouse colony management and genotyping using established PCR techniques. Work with small animals and assist with procedures such as surgery, pancreatic orthotopic injections, ultrasound imaging, and pregnancy and tumor monitoring. Assist with immunohistochemistry of frozen and fixed tissues or cells. Assist with protein biochemistry techniques, including protein quantification, SDS PAGE, immunoprecipitation, and Western blotting. Maintain and prepare accurate records of all experiments. Assist in the preparation of data for publication. Other duties assigned as needed.

• Theoretical knowledge of molecular biology, immunology, cell biology, and/or biochemistry.

• Ability to perform blood sample preparations including centrifugation, pipetting, making various buffer solutions, and proper sample storage. Ability to use biosafety cabinet, ULT/LN freezers, and centrifuge.

• Ability and willingness to handle and work with small animals. Ability to perform mouse genotyping using DNA isolation, PCR-based methods and agarose gel electrophoresis, and basic molecular biology experiments. Ability to assist in performing mouse surgeries, experiments, and injections.

• Ability to perform basic DNA and protein characterization techniques using electrophoretic analysis, quantification using plate-based analysis, and immunoblot-based analysis.

• Strong communication skills (both verbal and written) needed to interact professionally and effectively in the work environment, as well as to effectively and accurately document research procedures. Ability to read, comprehend and discuss research materials.

• Ability to maintain confidentiality. Organizational skills to order and maintain lab equipment and supplies.

• Basic understanding of computer applications such as Word, Excel and PowerPoint. Internet search and software analysis capabilities are preferred.

• Good organizational skills and ability to prioritize work.

• Enthusiasm for learning and a genuine interest in scientific research. Willingness and ability to learn new skills, research methods, and scientific principles.

• Familiarity with basic laboratory equipment such as centrifuges, spectrophotometers, balances, pH meters, autoclaves and electrophoresis equipment.

• Ability to adhere to established UCSD guidelines for safety and environmental issues.

• Familiar in proper handling of chemical and biohazard materials. Familiarity with sterile techniques.

• Detail-oriented. Ability to work with little supervision. Ability to follow verbal and/or written instructions. Ability to follow-up on previously begun procedures. Ability to accurately record data and enter into appropriate medium.

• Employment is subject to a criminal background check.

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

• Must be willing and able to work with small animals and blood samples.