Lab Assistant

Lab Assistant

Job Summary:

Employment Duration: 6 months The Laboratory Assistant III supports the UCSF AIDS Specimen Bank by processing, managing, and shipping biological specimens that are critical to research efforts worldwide. This role ensures specimens are handled accurately and within strict time frames, maintains inventory and freezer systems, and supports daily laboratory operations. The position works closely with senior laboratory staff to ensure compliance with quality, safety, and data management standards.

• Process and handle biological specimens including PBMCs, serum, plasma, urine, saliva, genital fluids, tissues, and other body fluids
• Receive, inventory, barcode, and store freshly collected and frozen specimens
• Enter and maintain accurate data in laboratory databases and tracking systems
• Retrieve specimens from on-site and off-site storage locations and assist with storage consolidation
• Monitor freezer temperatures and respond to alarms, including after-hours alerts
• Prepare, package, and ship frozen biological specimens in compliance with biohazard regulations
• Perform quality control and quality assurance checks on specimens for storage or shipment
• Prepare sterile media and chemical solutions as needed
• Maintain laboratory organization, including cleaning work areas, stocking supplies, and proper waste disposal
• Assist with general laboratory equipment maintenance and storage management

• High school diploma and three years of laboratory experience OR
• two years of college coursework in natural, physical, or social sciences plus two years of laboratory experience OR
• an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Experience processing biological specimens
• Ability to lift and handle up to 30-40 pounds (specimens stored in heavy racks)
• Strong organizational and written/verbal communication skills
• Ability to travel between UCSF locations, including off-site freezer facilities

• Experience handling and processing human biological specimens
• Experience with laboratory data entry systems and spreadsheets
• General computer proficiency, including email and internet-based systems
• Ability to remotely access and monitor temperature systems outside normal work hours

The University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) is a leading university dedicated to promoting health worldwide through advanced biomedical research, graduate-level education in the life sciences and health professions, and excellence in patient care. It is the only campus in the 10-campus UC system dedicated exclusively to the health sciences.

UCSF is a diverse community made of people with many skills and talents. We seek candidates whose work experience or community service has prepared them to contribute to our commitment to professionalism, respect, integrity, diversity and excellence – also known as our PRIDE values.

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.