The laboratory of Albert Y. Han, MD/PhD in the Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery is seeking a talented individual to join as a research techician. The Han lab studies molecular mechanisms of head and neck cancer using patient samples as well as pre-clinical models. The research assistant will work closely with the team to collect and process patient specimens, conduct in vitro/in vivo experiments, and bioinformatic analysis of genomic data.

The ideal candidate must be able to perform cell culture, qPCR, immunohistochemical staining, molecular biology techniques (DNA/RNA extraction, library preparation), light and florescence microscopy, basic rodent surgical procedures. The candidate should be able to keep a meticulously organized patient specimen database. Preference will be given to candidates with master’s degrees. This is a unique opportunity for those preparing for medical school or advanced research training (ie, “gap year”) with ample interactions with collaborators and clinicians in the department.

Job Accountabilities:

• Prepares experimental materials using laboratory protocols and safety guidelines.
• Collects and sterilizes dishware and glassware for use in laboratory.
• Handles and disposes of hazardous and non-hazardous materials in accordance with safety protocols.
• Sets up and operates standard laboratory equipment.
• Maintains accurate records of procedures used to conduct basic experiments. Performs limited routine analysis and provides basic interpretations.
• Prepares chemical solutions under the direction of an experienced technician.
• Stocks and maintains laboratory supplies. Monitors inventory levels and orders or secures supplies as needed.
• Maintains laboratory environment in orderly, operable condition.
• Learns basic laboratory safety and, if appropriate, basic radiation or blood borne pathogen safety under the direction of the USC Safety Office and more experienced laboratory staff.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in cancer biology, molecular biology, physiology, immunology, bioinformatics, computational biology, or related fields. Minimum requirement: bachelor’s degree.
• Proficient in molecular biology techniques such as cloning, DNA/RNA extraction, library preparation, qPCR, and others involving multiple scientific equipment.
• 1+ year experience with strong record of accomplishments and project experience in cell culture, rodent model, or related translational research
• Excellent oral and written communications skills.

Salary range:

The hourly base salary for this position is $22.43 - $27.63. 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.

USC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy. USC observes affirmative action obligations consistent with state and federal law. USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to the Background Screening Policy Appendix D for specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying. 

We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact USC Human Resources by phone at (213) 821-8100, or by email at [email protected]. Inquiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law.

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