Biomedical Informatics is an interdisciplinary field at the intersection of biology, medicine, and quantitative sciences. Biomedical Informatics researchers develop new methods to integrate and analyze vast amounts of data generated in the laboratory, clinical and translational research, clinical encounters, and population studies.

The goals of the Department of Biomedical Informatics (DBMI) are to (1) promote excellence in biomedical informatics research, (2) collaborate with biomedical researchers in developing new quantitative methods that enable the formulation and testing of original hypotheses, (3) train the next generation of biomedical informatics specialists, and (4) interface with engineering, mathematics, information and computer science communities, serving as a hub for quantitative scientists focused on biomedical research.

This department leads multiple federally and non-profit funded biomedical research projects, which are focused on the integration, analysis, and sharing of biomedical and health care data for the scientific community, as well as patient-centered research. In addition, the department runs a complex computational infrastructure that allows access and analysis of these data in a privacy-preserving manner.

Under supervision of the P.I., the Lab Assistant will assist with performing studies in pre-cancer/cancer biology-molecular biology including preparation of human tissue for next generation sequencing. This work includes human tissue macro- and micro-dissection, DNA extraction, DNA quantification, and preparation of DNA samples for sequencing. They will assist with reagent preparations and moving samples to histology for preparation and to various labs for processing, including pathology for H&E marking. They will learn and maintain laboratory equipment, have strong organizational skills to maintain lab stock databases, and work to ensure that laboratory spaces are clean, safe and compliant with University regulations. Other duties assigned as needed.

• Graduation from high school or a General Education Diploma and two years of laboratory experience or two years of college including courses in the natural, physical or social sciences and one year of laboratory experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience; and knowledge and abilities essential to the successful performance of the duties assigned to the position.

• Ability to read, and learn to interpret and apply protocols in conducting research. Ability to follow step-wise experimental protocols.

• Demonstrated ability doing DNA extractions and using Qubit DNA quantification.

• Familiarity with computer software and databases to analyze data, store results and compute raw data.

• Good organizational skills to order and maintain lab equipment and supplies. Ability to perform general lab maintenance, including cleaning and restocking supplies. Experienced working and maintaining a sterile environment.

• Working knowledge of cellular and molecular biology.

• Demonstrated ability to handle human tissue.

• Ability to use basic laboratory equipment including centrifuges, spectrophotometers, balances, pH meters, and heating plate equipment.

• Willingness and ability to become familiar with proper handling of chemical and biohazard materials.

• Willingness to adhere to established UCSD guidelines for safety and environmental issues.

• Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality.

• Willingness and ability to learn organizational skills as they relate to maintain lab equipment and supplies.

• Strong communication skills (both verbal and written) needed to interact professionally and effectively in the work environment with all levels including faculty, senior researchers, graduate students, undergraduates and those from various backgrounds with tact and diplomacy.

• Ability to prepare solutions, perform basic PCR, and pipetting techniques.

• Ability to maintain laboratory supplies, keeping written records, and data collection.

• Basic knowledge of basic chemistry and math required for preparing solutions.

• Demonstrated skills to operate various lab instruments.

• Strong computer skills including word processing, spreadsheet, database illustration, and presentation software and applications. Demonstrated ability to navigate and utilize electronic mail systems and the internet. Knowledge of MS Word, Excel, Power Point, Acrobat Suite, and Scanning. Experience in developing and maintaining various spreadsheets and databases. Experience in using a computer to design graphs, tables, charts, and other scientific data. Efficient and accurate data and typing entry skills.

• Ability to perform effective time management skills.

• Familiarity working in a laboratory that performs research to understand how cells evolve and how this complex process of genomic changes and mutations can impact various diseases in the human population.

• College-level coursework, including molecular biology.

• Overtime and weekends may be required.

• Occasional evenings and weekends may be required.

• Employment is subject to a criminal background check.