Research Lab Technician II

About the role

USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center is seeking a Research Lab Technician II to join the Preclinical Models Shared Resource (PMSR) core facility. The Research Lab Technician II will support the day-to-day operations of PMSR, a shared core facility within the USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center that provides preclinical oncology research services to investigators across USC. PMSR supports multiple investigator-initiated projects through the delivery of high-quality preclinical research services.

The position will conduct and assist with in vivo preclinical studies using mouse models. The technician is responsible for performing animal procedures, collecting biological samples, maintaining accurate animal and study records, and ensuring compliance with institutional IACUC protocols and animal welfare regulations. The technician will assist with the design and execution of preclinical studies. The position will interact with multiple investigators and work closely with other USC Norris core facilities.

The ideal candidate will have experience with oncology mouse models, strong technical skills in rodent procedures, excellent organizational abilities, and a commitment to generating high-quality preclinical data in a collaborative core facility environment.

Essential job duties include, but are not limited to

• Independently perform preclinical in vivo research studies following approved protocols.
• Monitor and evaluate animal health, welfare, and protocol endpoints.
• Perform routine mouse procedures such as handling, restraint, identification, measurements, injections, blood collection, surgeries, imaging and euthanasia.
• Collect, process, and maintain biological specimens for downstream analyses.
• Maintain accurate experimental records and prepare study reports.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and inventory; order supplies as needed.
• Interact with investigators to assess research needs, coordinate services and communicate study progress.
• Assist in maintaining standard operating procedures and IACUC protocols.
• Prepare service quotes, generate invoices, and perform billing activities.
• Perform other related duties as needed.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Biomedical Sciences, or a related scientific discipline.
• Experience working with laboratory mice or other small laboratory animals.
• Demonstrated proficiency in small animal handling techniques and procedures.

Preferred Qualifications

• Minimum two years of laboratory animal research experience, including hands-on experience with laboratory mice.
• Proficiency in advanced mouse procedures such as tail vein injections and survival surgeries.
• Familiarity with preclinical models for oncology research.
• Experience working in an academic core facility, or academic research environment.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively with investigators and multidisciplinary teams.

Additional information

Follows established USC and department policies, procedures, objectives, performance improvement, attendance, safety, environmental, and infection control guidelines, including adherence to the workplace Code of Conduct and Compliance Plan.

This position is on-site and employee must report to work at the USC Health Science Campus in Los Angeles, CA when scheduled. Work hours and on-site days may be subject to change depending on business needs.

Pay and benefits

The hourly rate range for this position is $25.71 - $28.00. 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.

Minimum Education

Associate's degree, Specialized/technical training, Combined experience/education as substitute for minimum education

Minimum Experience: 2 years

Minimum Field of Expertise: Working knowledge of laboratory equipment and research protocols. Knowledge of computer analysis techniques and ability to provide routine analysis and interpretation of research data.

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Additional information

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