Staff Research Associate - 120418

The Department of Medicine (DOM) is the largest department within the UCSD School of Medicine and is responsible for fulfilling the teaching, research, and clinical missions of the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine. The department employs approximately 500 salaried faculty, 168 academic appointees, 331 residents, fellow and postdocs and 479 staff personnel.

Incumbent will perform research on zebrafish cardiovascular development by assisting with oversight of aquaculture conditions, maintenance of aquaculture equipment, and usage of zebrafish procedure equipment in the Chi lab zebrafish facilities and procedure areas. Responsibilities include: Assisting in the oversight of health, maintenance, and genotyping of multiple distinct strains of wild-type, mutant, and transgenic zebrafish. Purchasing of supplies for work with zebrafish, assistance in training of researchers and employees working with zebrafish, and management of incoming and outgoing animal shipments. Responsible for laboratory management including: ordering and organization of supplies, maintenance of lab equipment, training of undergraduate students, routine preparation of buffers and media, and oversight of laboratory safety. Assist with experimental procedures in the laboratory in support of ongoing research projects, such as examination of the roles of specific zebrafish genes during heart development using genetic analysis and phenotypic characterization.

• Theoretical knowledge of aquaculture/fisheries, genetics, and/or developmental biology; BA or BS in either biology oraquaculture/fisheries and/or equivalent combination of experience and education.

• Knowledge of or experience working with aquaculture and/or zebrafish.

• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal. Ability to clearly and concisely communicate ideas, thoughts, problems, and policies, with a strong portfolio of interpersonal skills which include the ability to interact with tact, diplomacy and sensitivity.

• Ability to proactively and appropriately facilitate the maintenance of lab supplies and equipment, maintain steady levels of lab supplies and organized records.

• Ability to keep accurate records of experimental procedures and results, to discuss them, and to prepare relevant oral and written presentations.

• Demonstrated level of theoretical and practical competency in the field of aquaculture with the ability to analyze water chemistry and system functionality and the ability to solve problems related to both.

• Theoretical competency in the technical underpinnings of maintaining mutant and transgenic zebrafish strains.

• Demonstrated ability to organize, set priorities, meet deadlines, and efficiently carry out multiple and varied tasks during each workday.

• Experience with word processing , database, spreadsheet, and graphics software with a willingness and ability to update and increase skills and knowledge as needed.

• Knowledge/understanding and at least some experience with Safety Data Sheets, hazard communication and Injury and Illness Prevention Program. Familiarity with a Chemical Hygiene Plan addressing safety precautions including appropriate clothing and shoes, safe handling of chemicals, use of protective items. Willingness and ability to keep safety training current and consistent with research involvement.

• Employment is subject to a criminal background check.

• Willing to be flexible with work hours to include occasional evening or weekend work as required for animal care and experiments.