The Department of Translational Genomics is seeking a motivated full-time Research Lab Technician I to join the Keck Genomics Platform (KGP) Core. The successful candidate will have general experience in a research laboratory setting with basic knowledge and competency in various key functional areas with an emphasis on experimental design and execution. In addition, the successful applicant must possess and demonstrate a willingness to learn and employ new skill sets that will contribute to the Core (both technically and intellectually) as they will be expected to contribute to the overall success and growth of the Core objectives. 

The ideal candidate will have excellent interpersonal communication skills with a high emphasis on collaboration, meticulous attention to detail, competent at working independently, and the ability to quickly adapt to a wide scope of projects.

Responsibilities:

• Will be responsible for assisting in the coordinated shipping and receiving of samples, supplies, and equipment from clients and vendors.
• Follows all laboratory safety standards and assists in maintaining safe laboratory conditions and practices.
• Assists in maintaining detailed records, keeping track of samples, and organizing projects in the Keck Genomic Platform.
• Assists and performs DNA and RNA extraction from a variety of source materials (Blood, Tissue, FFPE, etc.)
• Will assist and perform quality checks on samples at different stages of processing.
• Assists in prepping samples and performing DNA/RNA library preparation at a high throughput capacity (Whole genome, exomes, transcriptomes)
• Assisting in the maintenance and disinfection of the laboratory and all laboratory equipment.
• Assisting in running and maintaining genetic sequencers.
• Collaborates with all parties in the Keck Genomic Platform to improve all services and stay relevant in the research field.
• Provides general laboratory assistance to support research activities.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience working in a clinical or research molecular laboratory.
• Bachelor’s degree in molecular biology, biology, microbiology, biochemistry, or related field.
• Experience with high throughput molecular biology techniques.
• Experience in performing DNA and RNA extractions on various sample types is preferred.
• Experience working in a BSL2 lab preferred.
• Detailed oriented person who can prioritize and manage multiple tasks and projects is highly preferred.
• Excellent organizational skills and documentation skills is highly preferred.
• Prior experience and knowledge in genomics are highly preferred.
• Working knowledge of basic laboratory equipment and protocols.

The successful candidate will have an opportunity to work in a team-oriented environment and provide cutting-edge high throughput genomics services to the Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, and its affiliates.

The hourly rate range for this position is $21.63 - $24.00. 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.

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About University of Southern California (USC)

USC is the leading private research university in Los Angeles—a global center for arts, technology and international business. With more than 47,500 students, we are located primarily in Los Angeles but also in various US and global satellite locations. As the largest private employer in Los Angeles, responsible for $8 billion annually in economic activity in the region, we offer the opportunity to work in a dynamic and diverse environment, in careers that span a broad spectrum of talents and skills across a variety of academic and professional schools and administrative units. As a USC employee and member of the Trojan Family—the faculty, staff, students, and alumni who make USC a great place to work—you will enjoy excellent benefits, including a variety of well-being programs designed to help individuals achieve work-life balance.

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