The Ideker Lab (https://idekerlab.ucsd.edu/) in the Division of Human Genetics and Precision Medicine at UC San Diego School of Medicine is comprised of a vibrant research team of 30-40 staff, postdocs, graduate students, and undergraduate students. The Ideker lab is known for its friendly, inclusive, and collaborative environment. We perform bioinformatics research coupled with wet-lab investigations, working in the areas of network biology, genetics, and machine learning applied to biomedicine. The Ideker lab develops physical and functional maps of cell biology in the service of qualitatively improving precision medicine for a myriad of human diseases. We are developing new ways to create these maps directly from genome scale measurements (genomics and proteomics) and to use these maps to translate the increasingly complex data gathered from patients to predict disease outcomes and develop better treatments. In pursuit of these goals, we conduct experiments to provide new large-scale data and to validate discoveries from our models. This includes generating cutting edge applications of CRISPR/Cas9 technologies (dual CRISPR KOs and Prime Editing), as well as standard fluorescent-reporter and immunoblot assays to link new findings to established biology. Our environment facilitates a collaborative process between computational exploration and experimental investigations.

Under the direction of the Principal Investigator and as a full participant in the laboratory environment, the incumbent will be responsible for the planning and execution of the laboratory phases of major research projects. Major contributions will include the design, optimization, and application of CRISPR-Cas9 (knock out, activation, inactivation, and/or base editing) experiments, pharmacological experiments to validate gene association with these functions, and cell-based assays. They will also conduct pharmacological experiments generating drug response curves and assessing drug response phenotype in multiple cell lines. They will have high level understanding of cell biology and ability to execute, design, and interpret experiments in close collaboration with other laboratory members. Other duties assigned as needed.

• Extensive theoretical and experimental knowledge of biological science.

• Demonstrated laboratory skills including: pipetting, molecular cloning, tissue culture, membrane and/or capillary immunoblot, PCR, gel electrophoresis, sanger sequencing analysis, RT-qPCR, DNA/RNA isolation, etc.

• Prior use and practical knowledge of at least one form of CRISPR-Cas9 technology (knock out, activation, inactivation, or base editors).

• Prior use and practical knowledge of RNA silencing technologies (siRNA or shRNA).

• Demonstrated experience with pharmacological drug treatments and response measurements.

• Demonstrated experience in troubleshooting and method optimization for experimental protocols.

• Excellent verbal and written communications skills. Proven experience in maintaining up to date laboratory notebooks and independently preparing summary reports regarding data quality.

• Exceptional organizational, problem solving skills, analytical skills, and long-range planning skills with meticulous attention to detail, ability to identify future contingencies, and the ability to effectively prioritize workload and meet required deadlines despite frequent interruptions and competing demands.

• Knowledge of data analysis protocols, data gathering, protocol design, and evaluation. Demonstrated ability to design analyses, develop and/or adapt methodological approaches needed for research projects, ability to provide innovative contributions and ideas.

• Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines and objectives.

• Advanced knowledge in the use of standard workplace software (e.g., Excel, Adobe Illustrator, Word, Power Point or equivalents).

• Familiarity with statistical analysis software such as GraphPad Prism, MATLAB, R, Python, etc.

• Familiarity with basic image segmentation analysis through Fiji/ImageJ, MATLAB, R, Python, etc.

• Familiarity with basic next-generation-sequencing analysis, including quality control and sequence alignment.

• Experience with high throughput screening (genetic or drug).

• Experience in managing research projects including monitoring milestones, pitfalls, troubleshooting techniques and course corrections.

• Proven ability to consult with PI and other academic staff on the development of new research projects and develop publication opportunities using existing data.

• PhD in biological science (with no extra experience), MS in biological sciences with 2-3 years experience, or equivalent work experience (~5-6 years).

• Must be willing to work occasional evenings and weekend days, as required.

• Must be willing to work with hazardous materials.

• Employment is subject to a criminal background check.