The Petrovic lab is seeking to hire a motivated Assistant Project Scientist who will carry out both managerial and research functions on the structural cell biology of tight junctions. The research scientist must have significant experience in mammalian cell culture, transfection/infection, light and fluorescence microscopy sample preparation and data collection/analysis, and CRISPR/Cas gene editing-based cell line generation. Alternatively, the research scientist will have significant experience with sample preparation for cryo-electron microscopy and cryo-electron tomography data collection/analysis or tight junction permeability assays. The assistant project scientist will work independently but consult with the PI in designing experiments and determining priorities. The assistant project scientist will also train new lab members in core techniques used in the laboratory, ensure proper use and maintenance of laboratory equipment, manage ordering and receiving processes, oversee the laboratory finances and financial projections, assist with the conceptualization, writing, and execution of grant proposals, and manage the laboratory’s reagent and consumables inventory.

Educational Requirements
PhD in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry or equivalent, or an equivalent combination of education and experience in in biological methods.
Key Responsibilities and Essential Functions

LABORATORY RESEARCH (70%)

Perform molecular cloning using standard molecular biology techniques. Generate and maintain knock-out, knock-in, etc. cell lines using gene editing methods. Perform mammalian cell transfections and lentiviral infections with in-house generated vectors. Perform standard transepithelial resistance and other permeability assays. Prepare cultured mammalian cells for live and fixed fluorescence imaging and perform fluorescence microscopy data collection and analysis. Prepare grids for cryo-electron tomography and perform cryo-electron tomography data collection and analysis. Maintain a lab notebook and prepare written reports and publication-ready manuscripts on results and laboratory methods. Work closely with other lab members to accomplish projects with aforementioned techniques and provide guidance in proper scientific practices and record-keeping.

LABORATORY OPERATIONS (30%)

Order, stock, and inventory supplies, chemicals, and equipment. Oversee laboratory assistants and staff research associates. Ensure proper storage, handling, and disposal of hazardous chemicals. Maintain and keep laboratory equipment in good working order, including basic maintenance functions (e.g. replacing fuses, lightbulbs, etc.) and identifying appropriate repair service. Maintain a neat lab environment. Ensure proper safety procedures, safe facilities, and proper laboratory practices and hygiene. Keep abreast of current state, federal, OSHA, EHS, and other regulations governing laboratory safety and hazardous chemicals. Coordinate activities and ensure compliance with UCLA facilities, operations, and other offices. Train new group members in the usage of equipment and experimental techniques. Train new group members in laboratory-specific safety considerations and standard operating procedures. Provide support in the conceptualization, writing, and execution of grant proposals. Oversee the laboratory finances and generate financial projections.

Other Requirements - Applies to all Positions
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Complies with all policies and standards.
• Complies with the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Principles of Community.
• This position description is not intended to be a complete list of all responsibilities, duties or skills required for the job and is subject to review and change at any time, with or without notice, in accordance with the needs of the organization.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs) Demonstrated experience in a laboratory setting.
Required Demonstrated ability to work independently and follow through on assignments.
Required Demonstrated ability to work as part of a research team, collaborating with colleagues.
Required Demonstrated ability to document experimental work and assemble reports relating to research projects, project results, and research methodologies. Required Demonstrated ability to manage research projects with minimal supervision.
Required Ability to apply or rapidly learn molecular and cell biology methods. Required Knowledge of current state, federal, OSHA, EHS, and other safety regulations.
Required Demonstrated ability to revise research protocols in response to changing environments and results.
Required Ability to work on multiple projects efficiently and effectively.
Required Ability to direct, train, and supervise research personnel students. Required Demonstrated ability to order, handle, and manage laboratory supplies, chemicals, hazardous chemicals.
Required Ability to oversee laboratory safety matters, including equipment, supplies, electrical, chemicals, laboratory procedures, and hazardous chemical disposal.
Required Ability to develop and document research and laboratory policies and procedures.
Required Ability to produce publication-quality manuscripts. Preferred Ability to produce fundable grant proposals.
Preferred Ability to maintain laboratory equipment and perform basic repairs. Preferred Ability to make decisions about the purchase of equipment and materials needed for research in the laboratory.