Research Lab Tech I

The laboratory of Dr. Fumito Ito at the Department of Surgery, USC Keck School of Medicine, is seeking a highly motivated researcher to join his team as a research assistant. The Ito lab focuses on developing more effective cancer immunotherapy and biomarker to monitor and predict response to immunotherapy using human samples and mouse models. The research assistant will work closely with senior lab members, processing blood and tumor samples from clinical studies, performing biochemical, cellular, and/or mouse experiments to evaluate therapeutic efficacy and the utility of biomarkers. We hope to fill this position ASAP, and the position remains open until filled.

Job Responsibilities:

• Prepares solutions, reagents, and media for experimental use
• Perform limited routine analysis and provides basic interpretations
• Assist post-docs and graduate students in standard laboratory techniques including immunohistochemistry, PCR, and Western blotting
• Maintain accurate records of procedures used to conduct basic experiments
• Maintain laboratory environment in orderly, operable condition
• Set up and operate standard laboratory equipment
• Monitor, maintain and manage transgenic mouse lines or mice on study needed for research projects
• Assist post-docs and graduate students in executing protocols for phenotypic characterization of mice
• Process human blood and tumor samples and/or perform a variety of experiments (e.g., molecular cloning, mammalian cell culture, flow cytometry, ELISA, xenograft mouse models) independently or under the supervision of senior lab members.
• Prepare experimental materials using laboratory protocols and safety guidelines

• Learn basic laboratory safety and, if appropriate, basic radiation or bloodborne pathogen safety under the direction of the USC Safety Office and more experienced laboratory staff • Handles and disposes of hazardous and non-hazardous materials in accordance with safety protocols

• On site location (no remote work)
• Perform other related duties as assigned or requested. The University reserves the right to add or change duties at any time

The hourly rate range for this position is $20.18 - $26.44. 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.

Minimum Education: High school or equivalent, Combined experience/education as substitute for minimum education Minimum Experience: 6 - 12 months, Combined education/experience as substitute for minimum experience Minimum Field of Expertise: Ability to follow detailed instructions, oral and written