Research Associate, Research Scientist, Medical Science

Overview

A Research Associate position is available immediately in the Saito laboratory to study hepatic cell biology, hepatic inflammation, and innate antiviral immunology. Our laboratory utilizes the state-of-the-art humanized liver chimeric mouse model in addition to the tools of cell biology, virology, genetics, molecular biology and systems biology. The ideal applicant will be a hardworking, creative and highly self‑motivated researcher who is interested in the field of liver disease (e.g., metabolic liver disease, viral hepatitis, liver inflammation, and hepatic immunity) and in pathogen-host interaction, liver diseases, inflammation, and immunity.

The candidate is expected to have significant experience with in vitro and in vivo experiments, including primary cell isolation/culture, general molecular biology, biochemistry, protein assays (Western blotting, immunoprecipitation, gel analysis), nucleic acid work (cloning, PCR, RT‑qPCR, RNA synthesis, transfection, extraction, gene over-expression/silencing), and microscopic analysis (immune fluorescent staining, immunohistochemistry, light microscopy, image analysis).

The Research Associate’s primary responsibilities will be to develop, lead, and conduct highly technical research projects under the PI’s guidance. This includes identifying the research question, designing and performing experiments, analyzing research data, and providing interpretations. The applicant is expected to serve as a lead author for publications and conference presentations, and to contribute to laboratory quality control, such as preparation of experimental materials, maintenance of protocols, safety guidelines, and animal protocols.

Preferred Education:

Applicants should hold a Ph.D. or be close to completing a Ph.D. in Molecular and Cellular Biology, Genetics, Biology, or a relevant field.

Preferred Experience:

4–6 years in wet lab (including Ph.D. training).
Preferred Field of Expertise:
In vitro and in vivo experiments in immunology (pathogen-host interactions), general cell biology, and biochemistry.

Minimum Education:

Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate.

Minimum Experience:

1 year.
Minimum Field of Expertise:
Directly related education and experience in research specialization with advanced knowledge of laboratory equipment, procedures, and analysis methods.

Annual range: $68,640.00 – $70,000.00. When extending an offer, USC considers the scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate’s experience, education/training, skills, peer equity, legal requirements, contractual stipulations, grant funding, and market considerations.

The summary of Saito laboratory research can be found at: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)./

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, CV, references, and a list of any publications or accomplishments.