Specialized Laboratory Technician

The University of Southern California (USC), founded in 1880, is located in the heart of downtown Los Angeles and is the largest private employer in the City of Los Angeles. USC is consistently ranked among the nations most prestigious universities, and the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology features one of the worlds best degree and research programs in gerontology. The USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology has an international reputation as a hub of aging research and with additional strong programs throughout the university, leads the way in defining and advancing the field of gerontology: https://gero.usc.edu The Lee Lab at the University of Southern California (USC) is recruiting a Specialized Lab Technician to support ongoing studies on the molecular and physiological mechanisms of aging and age-related diseases. We focus on how metabolism, mitochondrial communication, immune signaling, and cellular stress responses shape the aging process and influence disease outcomes. A major focus of our lab is microproteins encoded by the mitochondrial genome a newly recognized class of bioactive proteins that regulate key cellular functions. We study how these mitochondrial-encoded microproteins impact fundamental aging biology and age-related dysfunctions and diseases, spanning projects from basic molecular mechanisms to translational research aimed at improving health span and resilience. This position is ideal for individuals who are deeply curious about the biology of aging whether youre a recent graduate eager to immerse yourself in research or someone with prior laboratory experience looking to broaden your scientific scope. Youll join an active and collaborative team investigating how molecular and physiological processes shape aging and age-related diseases. Roles and Responsibilities: Perform mouse experiments, including handling, injections, and phenotyping Conduct cell-based assays, including metabolic and stress resistance assays Execute biochemical and molecular biology techniques, such as: Western blotting Quantitative PCR (qPCR) Co-immunoprecipitation (co-IP) Enzymatic and metabolic activity assays Fluorescence and confocal imaging Preferred Qualifications: Bachelors or masters degree in biology, physiology, neuroscience, immunology, or related field Experience with mouse handling, molecular/cellular biology, or biochemical assays Interest in aging biology, mitochondrial regulation, and translational research Strong organizational and communication skills Ability to work independently and as part of a team This is a full-time hourly position with work expected fully on campus. Work schedule would be M-F, (usual hours of operation with flexibility as needed, some after-hours and weekends may be required). Benefits include a competitive salary, and a rich array of USC benefits including healthcare (including dental and vision), 403(b), tuition reimbursement, national holidays, paid vacation, and more. This position is funded by a research contract/grant and may be funded by a subsequent contract/grant. Accordingly, your position is contingent upon receipt of the necessary funding from this or any subsequent contract/grant to continue employment. The hourly rate range for this position is $26.38-$29. 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 candidates 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. The Lee Lab offers opportunities to develop advanced research skills, contribute to high-impact publications, and collaborate across disciplines. Team members benefit from access to cutting-edge facilities within the Leonard Davis School of Gerontology at USC. If you are curious, motivated, and passionate about discovery in the biology of aging, we encourage you to apply. To apply, please submit a CV and a brief cover letter outlining your research background and interests. USC is an equal opportunity, affirmative action 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 will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring ordinance. We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring 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 uschr@usc.edu. Inquiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law. Minimum Education: Bachelor's degree 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. 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 uschr@usc.edu. Inquiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law. Notice of Non-discrimination Employment Equity Read USCs Clery Act Annual Security Report USC is a smoke-free environment Digital Accessibility If you are a current USC employee, please apply to this USC job posting in Workday by copying and pasting this link into your browser: https://wd5.myworkday.com/usc/d/inst/1$9925/9925$135628.htmld USC is a leading private research university located in the heart of downtown Los Angeles a global center for arts, technology and international business. As the largest private employer in the city responsible for more than $5 billion annually in economic activity in the region we offer the opportunity to work in a dynamic and diverse environment, in careers that span a broad spectrum of talents and skills. As a USC employee, you will enjoy excellent benefits and perks, and you will be a member of the Trojan Family - the faculty, staff, students and alumni who make USC a great place to work. Application help If you need assistance during the application process, see our application help. (If you already work for USC, see Your USC career.) At any point you may also contact our HR Service Center for help at (213) 821-8100 or uschr@usc.edu. Don't see the dream job you are looking for? Drop off your contact information and resume and we will reach out to you if we find the perfect fit!