Research Laboratory Technician II: USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center
The University of Southern California (USC), founded in 1880, is the largest private employer in the City of Los Angeles. As an employee of USC, you will be a part of a world-class research university and a member of the “Trojan Family,” which is comprised of the faculty, students and staff that make the university what it is.
Exciting opportunity at a top Cancer Center:
The Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, at the USC Keck School of Medicine, ranks among the top cancer centers in the nation and recently received a near-perfect “outstanding-to-exceptional” score on its NCI Core Grant renewal. Dr. Amir Goldkorn is a medical oncologist and physician-scientist who serves as Associate Director for Translational Research for the Cancer Center, and who also founded and directs the Center’s Liquid Biopsy Core. The Goldkorn Lab and the adjacent Liquid Biopsy Core (Norris Research Tower 6516) conduct translational studies in collaboration with multiple clinical investigators, using blood samples collected from cancer patients treated at USC and at other collaborating institutions around the country. Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and cell-free nucleic acids (cfDNA, cfRNA) are recovered from blood samples using various instruments and methodologies developed in the lab. Cellular and molecular profiles generated from these liquid biopsies are used to develop new multi-parametric biomarkers to guide the treatment of advanced cancers.
The successful candidate:
The research laboratory technician will report to Dr. Goldkorn and work closely with the Liquid Biopsy Core Manager and other research team members to coordinate receipt of blood specimens, to process, analyze, and catalog these samples, and also to develop novel liquid biopsy analysis techniques. The successful candidate should, at minimum, have completed a college education (B.A.) and have a basic (1-2 years) level of laboratory experience, preferably in a cancer biology lab or similar environment. They should be well-versed in tissue culture, PCR, and other basic cell and molecular biology techniques. This unique position, combining clinically-relevant samples with cutting-edge science and technologies, is ideally suited to candidates who are technically excellent but also eager to innovate. Candidates with this background, who are excited about advancing liquid biopsies and precision oncology, are encouraged to apply.
Preferred Qualifications:
Preferred Education: Bachelor’s degree
Preferred Experience: Basic molecular biology techniques. Blood sample processing.
Supervises: May oversee student, temporary and/or casual workers.
The hourly rate range for this position is $24.23 – $26.45. 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 consideration.
Job Profile Summary
Minimum Education: Associate’s degree, Specialized/technical training, Combined experience/education as substitute for minimum education
Minimum Experience: 2 years
Minimum Field of Expertise: Working knowledge of laboratory equipment and research protocols. Knowledge of computer analysis techniques and ability to provide routine analysis and interpretation of research data.
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