The Gladstone-UCSF Institute of Genomic Immunology is recruiting a Research Associate (RA) to help perform in vitro experiments related to genetic engineering and functional assessment of T cell therapies, primarily CAR-T cells. Our institute has pioneered the application of novel genetic engineering technologies such as CRISPR to primary human immune cells. These new technical abilities have furthered our research into the genetic control of T cell biology as well as opened the door to novel cancer immunotherapies based on engineered human immune cells. This individual would be part of a preclinical research team under the direction of Justin Eyquem (UCSF) streamlining the generation, benchmarking, and functional assessment of genetically engineered human T cell therapies for cancer and inflammatory disease.

Key Responsibilities

The RA will utilize various protocols to generate the molecular components, such as DNA constructs, gRNA library, lentiviral vectors and Adeno-Associated Vectors necessary for specific cellular engineering experiments. The technicianâ™s role will also include the design and completion of cellular editing experiments, as well as in vitro analysis of novel cellular cancer immunotherapies and coordination with the in vivo team for mouse experiments employing the T cell products under development. Additional responsibilities will consist of isolation and culture of primary human T cells, as well as functional analysis of engineered cells via Sanger sequencing, next-generation DNA sequencing, Single-Cell RNA sequencing, and flow cytometry. Strong organizational and communication skills are required.

• Preparation of NGS library

• Design and cloning of CRISPR library

• Production of lentiviral vectors for gRNA library and transduction of primary cells

• Primer design and PCR troubleshooting

• Assist with cell culture and preparation for subQ injections or IV injections

• Assist with dissection of the spleen, lymph nodes, and engrafted tumor for downstream analysis

• Work collaboratively across a dynamic scientific environment

• Maintain and ensure a safe laboratory environment and work practices. Follow standard operating procedures (SOP) and IACUC protocols.

• Other related duties as assigned

Required Qualifications:

• AA or AS and 2+years related experience or BS or BA or MS in Molecular Biology, Chemistry Biochemistry, Microbiology, or related field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience

• New graduates with a commitment to learning are welcome to apply

• Experience with general laboratory techniques, especially basic molecular and cellular biology techniques (including but not limited to DNA and RNA isolation, PCR, gel electrophoresis, DNA assembly, bacterial transformation, mammalian cell culture, etc.)

• Excellent attention to detail, organizational and interpersonal communication skills (verbal and written)

• Willingness and ability to learn new methods and skills for changing research priorities

• Ability to work independently and as a member of a research team

• Ability to prioritize tasks, coordinate work tasks with others, and meet multiple deadlines

• Ability to comply with policies and procedures

• Some evening and weekend hours are required

• Design and cloning of CRISPR library

• Production of Lentiviral vector for gRNA library and transduction of cell lines or primary cells

Preferred Qualifications

• One or more years of laboratory experience utilizing techniques or methods required by the position

• Prior experience with DNA sequencing technologies, including Sanger and NGS

• Prior experience in the design and assembly of DNA constructs (via restriction digestion and ligation, Gibson assemblies, Golden-Gate assemblies, etc.)

• Prior experience with mammalian cell culture, especially T cell culture

The Gladstone-UCSF Institute of Genomic Immunology is committed to improving diversity, equity, and inclusion in the genomic immunology field, from trainees to faculty, and is an equal- opportunity employer.

About Gladstone Institutes

The Gladstone Institutes is an independent, not-for-profit research institution affiliated with the University of California San Francisco (UCSF), transforming the health and well-being of all people through medical research, education, and outreach in the fields focused on heart disease, immunology and virology including HIV/AIDS, and neurological disease. Home to notable leaders in the field of medical science, including 2012 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine recipient Shinya Yamanaka, M.D.,Ph.D. Gladstone is comprised of four institutes in addition to various Centers and programs focusing approximately 500 members of our team on its mission: Science Overcoming Disease. Located in an award-winning building adjacent to UCSF's Mission Bay Campus, Gladstone offers a competitive salary and benefits program within a robust environment for those seeking to maximize their potential. Please consider Gladstone and make a difference in human health.

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