Research Associate, Research Scientist, Clinical Research

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).

The candidate is expected to have significant experience with in vitro and in vivo experiments, including but not limited to primary cell isolation/culture, general molecular biology, biochemistry, in vivo study skills. This includes, but not limited to, protein assay (Western Blotting, Immunoprecipitation, gel analysis), nucleic acids (DNA and RNA such as cloning, PCR, RT-QPCR, RNA synthesis, transfection, extraction), microscopic analysis (immune fluorescent staining, Immunohistochemistry (IHC), light microscopy and image analysis and processing).

• The Research Associate’s primary responsibilities will be to develop, lead, and conduct highly technical research projects under the PI s guidance. It includes identifying the research question, design, and perform experiments, as well as the analysis of research data and provides interpretations.
• The applicant is expected to serve as a lead author for publication and conference presentation.
• The candidate must be fluent in the use of laboratory equipment, computer/research/office software to conduct analyses of experiment data.
• The candidate also contributes to the quality control of the laboratory, such as preparation of general experimental materials, maintenance of laboratory protocols, safety guidelines, and animal protocols.
• Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, CV, references, and a list of any publications or accomplishments.

• PhD (preferred) or close to completing a PhD in Molecular and Cellular Biology, Genetics, Biology, or a relevant field.
• 4-6 years in wet lab experience (including PhD training).
• Experience in in vitro and in vivo experiments (mouse), molecular biology, biochemistry, and protein assay (Western Blotting, Immunoprecipitation, gel analysis), nucleic acids (DNA and RNA methods such as cloning, PCR, RT-QPCR, RNA synthesis, transfection, extraction, gene over-expression/silencing), and microscopic analysis (immunofluorescent staining, IHC, light microscopy and image processing).
• Experience with pathogen-host interactions, liver diseases, inflammation, and immunity is desirable.

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

The annual range for this position is $68,640.00 - $70,000.00. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate s work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.

• Preferred Education:
  
  PhD or near completion in Molecular and Cellular Biology, Genetics, Biology, or related field.
• Preferred Experience:
  
  4-6 years in wet lab experience.
• Preferred Field of Expertise: in vitro and in vivo experiments in immunology (pathogen-host interactions), general cell biology, and biochemistry.
• Minimum Education:
  
  PhD or equivalent doctorate.
• Minimum Experience:
  
  1 year in related research roles with advanced knowledge of equipment, procedures and analysis methods.

Job  
• Posted Date: 11/04/2025