University of Southern California · 3 hours ago
Specialized Lab Technician
Los Angeles, CA
Full-time
Onsite
Mid Level
$28.83/hr - $36.02/hr
4+ years expThe University of Southern California is seeking a Specialized Lab Technician for the Department of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine. The role involves supporting the development of CAR-GMP-based immunotherapies through various laboratory duties including cell culture, genetic engineering, and molecular analysis.
EducationHigher EducationUniversities
Responsibilities
Prepare customized culture media for the expansion and maintenance of mouse and human granulocyte–monocyte progenitors (GMPs)
Isolate and prepare peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from mouse bone marrow
Isolate mononuclear cells (MNCs) from human cord blood
Perform in vitro expansion, differentiation, and phenotypic characterization of mouse and human GMPs
Maxiprep plasmid and lentiviral vectors
Generate genetically modified GMPs using plasmid- and lentiviral-mediated transduction/transfection, including CAR-GMPs
Perform intravenous (i.v.) infusion of mouse and human GMPs into mouse models
Conduct bioluminescence imaging to monitor cell engraftment, migration, and persistence in vivo
Prepare cryosections of mouse tissues
Perform immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence staining for tissue and cell analysis
Perform PCR-based genotyping
Conduct RT-PCR and Western blot analyses for gene and protein expression studies
Manage laboratory supplies, including placing and tracking orders
Maintain accurate experimental records and comply with laboratory safety and regulatory standards
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in Biology, Immunology, Stem Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biomedical Engineering, or a related field
Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture
Basic experience in molecular biology techniques, including PCR and/or RT-PCR
Ability to follow detailed protocols and maintain accurate laboratory records
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a team-based research environment
Minimum Experience: 4 years
Minimum Field of Expertise: Degree in directly related specialized scientific field
Previous specialized laboratory experience, knowledgeable in use of specialized laboratory equipment
Working knowledge of lab procedures, techniques and testing related to specialized scientific field
Computer literacy
Preferred
Master's degree or higher in a relevant biomedical field
Experience with primary immune cells, particularly myeloid cells (e.g., GMPs, macrophages, dendritic cells)
Experience in mouse models, including i.v. injections and tissue collection
Familiarity with lentiviral or plasmid-based gene delivery and generation of genetically modified cells (e.g., CAR engineering)
Experience with protein and gene expression analyses, including Western blotting and immunohistochemistry/immunofluorescence
Experience with bioluminescence imaging or other in vivo imaging modalities
Prior work in cell-based immunotherapy, translational research, or stem/progenitor cell biology
Experience working with human samples (e.g., cord blood or PBMCs)
Familiarity with biosafety (BSL-2) and animal research regulations
Company
University of Southern California
University of Southern California is a private research university offering opportunities for interdisciplinary study and collaboration.
10001+ employees
H1B Sponsorship
University of Southern California has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships. Please note that this does not
guarantee sponsorship for this specific role. Below presents additional info for your
reference. (Data Powered by US Department of Labor)
Distribution of Different Job Fields Receiving Sponsorship
Represents job field similar to this job
Trends of Total Sponsorships
2025 (253)
2024 (239)
2023 (172)
2022 (207)
2021 (182)
2020 (195)
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageTotal Funding
$19.64MKey Investors
Patient-Centered Outcomes Research InstituteCalifornia Institute for Regenerative MedicineCDA Foundation
2025-02-04Grant· $10.8M
2025-01-30Grant· $5.93M
2024-07-30Grant
Leadership Team
David A Barnhart
Director, USC Space Engineering Research Center
H
Hossein Pourmand
Assistant Vice President, Research Initiatives, University Advancement
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