The UCSD Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences is composed of 65 faculty 14 clinical fellows, 4 Assistant Project Scientists/Postdoctoral Fellows. The department is composed of 7 divisions: Obstetrics and Gynecology, Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Gynecologic Oncology, Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Hospitalist, Family Planning and Urogynecologic and Reconstructive Surgery. The department is currently ranked 5th in the nation in NIH funding among ObGyn departments.

This project is focused on investigating the molecular mechanisms important for successful embryo implantation.

Under the close supervision of the PIs, the incumbent will primarily be performing embryo and stem cell culture, molecular biology, and immunohistochemistry techniques. The project will involve thawing and culturing of human blastocysts, dissociation of samples to single cells, preparation of RNA sequencing libraries, histological sample embedding, immunofluorescence analysis, confocal microscopy, and microinjection. The incumbent will also participate in animal studies including euthanasia and dissecting tissue for analysis. Also responsible for installing, operating and maintaining relevant laboratory equipment. Responsible for ensuring laboratory safety, maintaining a laboratory inventory, performing general lab maintenance, and assisting with the ordering of supplies.

• Theoretical knowledge in a life science such as is typically acquired by a Bachelors Degree in a field related to molecular, cellular, and developmental biology and/or appropriate work experience.

• Ability and willingness to handle and work with human tissues, animal tissues, and other bio-hazardous, toxic, and carcinogenic materials, and to recognize safety problems.

• Knowledge of radiation safety and bio-safety techniques and practices.

• Demonstrated ability to follow established Safety and Bio-hazardous Material Guidelines.

• Demonstrated skill in the operation and maintenance of various lab equipment such as centrifuges, spectrophotometers, balances, pH meters, autoclaves and electrophoresis equipment.

• Demonstrated experience with DNA and RNA isolation, RTPCR and qPCR.

• Proficient with the operation of PC's and associated software, including MS Access, Word, Excel, etc. Demonstrated ability to work with and learn new software for data-analysis.

• Knowledge of and ability to adhere to established UCSD guidelines for safety and environmental issues.

• Superb oral and written communication skills.

• Knowledge in sterile technique and biospecimen repository management.

• Demonstrated experience in culture of human embryos and pluripotent stem cells.

• Demonstrated enthusiasm for learning.

• Experience in keeping accurate and well-organized lab records, lab notebook and computer data files.

• Prior experience and demonstrated organizational skills in the order/maintenance of lab equipment and supplies.

• Employment is subject to a criminal background check.

• Willingness to work with human and animal cells including animal handling.

• Must be available for working according to variable schedules including occasional weekends.

• Must be willing to work occasional extended shifts and/or flexible hours.

• Must have valid California Driver's License and acceptable driving record.

• Must be willing to travel off-site.