The Villa laboratory at the University of California, San Diego is seeking curious, thoughtful, and motivated individuals to fill twoResearch Technicianpositions. Dr. Elizabeth Villa’s laboratory wants to see inside cells at the highest possible resolution to understand the structural dynamics and interactions of macromolecular complexes. To accomplish this, Villa and her team develop tools and technologies to bridge live-cell imaging with cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET). Then, they use these tools to explore fundamental or previously unexplored questions in cell biology. For example, the team is focused on understanding complex biology in prokaryotes and eukaryotes, such as studying a kinase and its cellular function in health and its role in Parkinson’s disease. In addition, they are examining the molecular architecture of the nuclear periphery and are investigating dynamic processes in bacteria. To learn more about the lab, visit their website: https://villalab.ucsd.edu/

EPI Research Technician-

The technician will be responsible for contributing to the lab’s research focused on further understanding the structural dynamics and interactions between phage and phage-infected bacteria. Technician will be responsible for bacteria cell maintenance, plasmid DNA expansion, fluorescence imaging, cryo-em sample preparation, etc. This is an opportunity to be part of a phage therapy research collaboration between multiple laboratories at the UC San Diego, and part of a larger collaboration focused on pathogens within the Howard Hughes Medical institute, the Emerging Pathogens Initiative (EPI). In this role, you will support the principal investigator and research staff on phage-related projects. This is an ideal role for those who would like to gain more hands-on research experience before moving on to graduate school.

Mammalian Research Technician-

The technician will be responsible for supporting research staff on mammalian tissue culture experiments by assisting with tasks such as tissue culture cell maintenance, plasmid DNA transfections, fluorescence imaging, cryo-em sample preparation, etc. This is an opportunity to work on a collaboration project already established within our lab and with other laboratories. For example, one project is involved in the study of LRRK2, the major cause of familial Parkinson’s disease, and another on the structural dynamics of HIV entry into host mammalian cells. This is an ideal role for those who would like to gain more hands-on research experience before moving on to graduate school.

• Training in science writing and communication.

• 1:1 mentorship while also working collaboratively as part of a team.

• Opportunities for professional and educational development and growth, including assistance in preparing for graduate school applications and interviews.

• Contributing to exciting research projects with potential for authorship on research papers and the opportunity to present original work at scientific meetings.

• A competitive compensation package, with comprehensive health and welfare benefits.

• Interact closely with lab members to plan and perform experiments at every stage from sample collection and preparation to data collection and analysis.

• Maintain bacterial and tissue cultures for experimental purposes.

• Perform standard molecular biology techniques, such as: cloning/generation of plasmid DNAs, amplification upon transfection/transformation into mammalian or bacteria cells, respectively, large and/or small-scale isolation/preparation of RNA, DNA, and plasmids, protein extracts preparations.

• Vitrification of samples on EM grids for cryo-electron microscopy

• Participate in weekly laboratory meetings and planning sessions.

• Maintain knowledge of current developments in research area through reading applicable literature and using online resources.

• Bachelor of Science degree in molecular biology, chemistry, or related field.

• Knowledge and experimental ability to perform procedures used in a molecular biology research laboratory setting such as sterile technique, DNA and RNA preparation, protein purification, PCR amplification, bacterial transformation, western blotting, cloning, bacterial growth and handling, plasmid preparation.

• Experience and knowledge of proper handling, storage and disposal of chemicals, radioisotopes, biochemicals, hazardous chemicals, and biohazardous materials, including radioactive materials.

• Demonstrated knowledge and skill working with sterile equipment and supplies.

• Experience using fluorescent microscope (deconvolution and confocal).

• Demonstrated successful, positive interpersonal communication skills needed to interact well within a dynamic team environment and with diverse multinational scientific staff. Excellent oral and written communication.

• Ability to draft routine reports and keep accurate records of work performed.

• Able to train others in specialized tasks as advised by supervisor.

Physical Requirements

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet). Work may involve possible exposure to malodorous vapors, low dose radiation, contamination by toxic chemicals and acids and presence of carcinogenic substances or other hazardous materials.

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Please Note:

This job description sets forth the job’s principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however. Unless they begin with the word “may,” the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are “essential functions” of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.