Lab Assistant - 138056

The Center for Neural Repair (CNR) is within the UCSD department of Neurosciences. Our goal is to understand and enhance mechanisms of CNS regeneration after spinal cord injury. Projects in animals are designed toward finding clinically relevant advances and translational therapies to treat human paralysis and neurodegenerative disease.

Under supervision, Lab Assistant 2 performs daily procedures on animals as part of a stem cell graft treatment study of spinal cord injured (SCI) laboratory rodents. Other duties include performing basic laboratory duties such as pipetting, weighing and making solutions, general laboratory maintenance and assisting with ordering lab supplies. May also assist with behavioral observation test on rodents. Perform neuroscience specific techniques such as coating slides for tissue mounting and sectioning rodent brain and spinal cord tissue for histological analysis. Perform other duties as assigned.

• Two years of college including courses in biological sciences and one (1) year of lab experience, OR equivalent combination of high school diploma (or GED) and relevant two (2) yearS of lab experience.

• Knowledge of general laboratory methods.

• Excellent verbal, written, and electronic communication skills.

• Ability to fulfill the tasks related to rodent handling and restraint and other minor procedures.

• Demonstrated excellent time management skills.

• Demonstrated skill in accurate record keeping. Ability to organize/analyze/calculate data and produce results in graphic or visual formats.

• Proven ability in handling and preparation of solutions, chemicals, and drugs.

• Knowledge of basic lab safety requirements and procedures.

• Demonstrated skill sectioning rodent tissue using a microtome.

• Experience working with Liquid Nitrogen.

• Experience doing behavioral testing/training with rats.

• Knowledge of Material Safety Data Sheets. Knowledge of basic lab equipment.

• Knowledge of antiseptic techniques, and ability to create standard media solutions and buffers.

• Employment is subject to a criminal background check.

• Must be able and willing to work with rats.

• Must be willing to work on weekends and holidays.