The Department of Pediatrics is one of the largest departments within the School of Medicine with approximately 250 Faculty, 127 postdoctoral fellows (both MDs and PhDs) along with over 320 support staff (not including hospital staff). In addition, the Department has 68 clinical residents distributed across the Divisions. The missions of research, education and patient care are intertwined, and are integral to the goals of the department.

The Department manages a university-affiliated children's health system with the physicians and leadership of the University of California, San Diego (UCSD), Rady Children's Hospital, and Rady Children's Specialists of San Diego, a Medical Practice Foundation, unifying pediatric patient care, research, education and community service programs.

Under supervision, this position involves performance of laboratory assays including specimen processing, PCR, ELISAs, and other routine assays . In addition, the applicant will perform lab maintenance work including preparation of reagents and making inventory of specimens. The applicant will also assist other lab members in their experiments as needed. Performs other duties as assigned.

• Graduation from high school or a General Education Diploma and two years of laboratory experience or two years of college including courses in the natural, physical or social sciences and one year of laboratory experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience and knowledge and abilities essential to the successful performance of the duties assigned to the position.

• Knowledge of or experience in basic laboratory techniques.

• Ability and willingness to handle and work with human biospecimens and other bio-hazardous, toxic, and carcinogenic materials, and to recognize safety problems. Demonstrated ability to follow established Safety and Bio-hazardous Material Guidelines.

• Knowledge of the operation and maintenance of various lab equipment such as centrifuges, spectrophotometers, balances, pH meters, and electrophoresis equipment.

• Knowledge of or experience with DNA and RNA isolation, RTPCR and qPCR.

• Proficient with the operation of PC's and associated software, including Word, Excel, etc. Demonstrated ability to work with and learn new software for data-analysis.

• Knowledge of and ability to adhere to established UCSD guidelines for safety and environmental issues.

• Superb oral and written communication skills.

• Ability to keep accurate and well-organized lab records, lab notebook and computer data files.

• Demonstrated organizational skills and the ability to order/maintain lab equipment and supplies.

• Demonstrated enthusiasm for learning.

• Experience with protein purification and mouse infection work.

• Employment is subject to a criminal background check.

• Must be available for working according to variable schedules including evenings and occasional weekends.

• Must be willing to work occasional extended shifts and/or flexible hours.

• Must have access to reliable transportation.