HIV Research Technician - Medicine - 141992

The Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health at UC San Diego is a leading academic and research division with more than 40 faculty members dedicated to advancing infectious disease research, patient care, education, and global health initiatives. Research and clinical programs are conducted across multiple UC San Diego and VA facilities, supporting innovative studies in HIV/AIDS, emerging infections, immunology, antimicrobial resistance, and population health. Major international collaborations in Mozambique, Mexico, India, South Africa and Peru play important roles in the Division's expansion of its international programs. The division continues to grow and expand with the development of our international medicine program, as well the ongoing studies and interests of our faculty.

Under supervision, incumbent will perform experiments involving a limited variety of standard molecular biology techniques including HIV viral load assays, DNA/RNA extraction and purification, cDNA synthesis, polymerase chain reactions, gel electrophoresis, and DNA sequencing. Duties also include processing human blood and clinical samples from HIV infected donors. Technician will handle other laboratory tasks including maintaining an accurate laboratory notebook, detailed inventory of clinical specimens, freezer inventory, ordering supplies, preparation of solutions, maintain a clean laboratory area, minor equipment maintenance, and other lab tasks as needed.

• Theoretical knowledge of biology, molecular biology, or other related fields.

• Ability to communicate clearly and to keep organized, neat, and accurate laboratory records and notebooks. Effectively and accurately document research procedures. Ability to read, comprehend, and discuss research materials.

• Experience with the operation of a personal computer and software application such as MS Word, and Excel.

• Enthusiasm for learning and a genuine interest in scientific research. Willingness and ability to learn new skills, research methods, and scientific principles. Ability to work with a variety of personnel from different laboratories.

• Knowledge of sterile culture and aseptic techniques. This includes preparation of buffers and reagents.

• Knowledge in the operation of scientific and experimental laboratory equipment necessary for the successful completion of the research design. This includes hand pipettors, pipetmans, pH meters, Mettler analytical and top-loading balances, plate washers, plate readers, agarose gel apparatus, thermocyclers, incubators, and various types of centrifuges.

• Organizational skills including the ability to organize and adapt the work schedule to accommodate experimental design.

• Knowledge of HIV viral load assays or Elisa assays.

• Familiarity with processing blood, CSF, cultured cells and their supernatants infected with HIV and other human retroviruses.

• Knowledge of high throughput specimen processing, sequencing, and sequence data management.

• Knowledge of radiation safety and biosafety techniques and practices.

• Knowledge of proper manipulation of infectious specimens such as the use of Biological Hazard Level III and III bio-containment facilities and cabinets, decontamination of work areas and proper laboratory attire.

• Must be willing to process culture cells, and human specimens infected with HIV and other human retroviruses.
• Must be willing to work with hazardous chemicals and radioisotopes.
• Must be able to adjust work schedule to meet deadlines. Must be able to work various hours and locations based on business needs.
• Employment is subject to a criminal background check.
• Employment is subject to pre-employment physical for those who work in clinical settings and/or with patients.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Complies with all policies and standards.
• Complies with the University of California, San Diego Health (UCSDH) Principles of Community.
• This position description is not intended to be a complete list of all responsibilities, duties or skills required for the job and is subject to review and change at any time, with or without notice, in accordance with the needs of the organization.