Scientific Research Associate
The University of California, San Diego
About this position
Position Description
UC San Diego Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences (SSPPS) is growing in the diverse areas of professional educational programs, cutting-edge research, and pharmacy services. Research areas specific to this position posting include the spectrum of drug development, drug discovery, pharmacology in disease models, toxicology, drug delivery, and pharmacy practices including pharmacoeconomics, pharmacogenomics, and health systems. The school is committed to offering a dynamic learning environment and growing opportunities to its talented and dedicated employees. Under direct supervision of the Principal Investigator and senior lab personnel, Scientific Research Associate assist with computational data processing, synthesis, and instrument operation. The duties are not limited to running and troubleshooting agentic AI-based metabolite annotation and discovery pipelines; processing and curating MS/MS data using established computational pipelines (e.g., GNPS, MassQL, molecular networking, MASST/FASST), assisting with multiplexed organic synthesis of candidate reference compounds used to validate computational predictions, and operating and maintaining mass spectrometry/LC instrumentation. Additionally, perform administrative and safety duties, including ordering and tracking laboratory supplies and reagents, submitting purchase receipts and processing cost reconciliation against grant accounts, maintaining chemical inventory and safety requirements, supporting laboratory safety compliance and training tracking, and assisting in the preparation of reports, figures, and manuscript sections. Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Theoretical understanding and practical knowledge of biology, chemistry, molecular biology, and biochemistry attained through a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Microbiology or related field, or an equivalent combination of education and laboratory experience. Demonstrated, hands-on experience and a working understanding of general chemistry, and of chromatography and/or mass spectrometry, gained through research, internships, or prior employment. Comfortable working with computational tools/software pipelines and basic data files. Hands-on familiarity with organic synthesis and/or instrument operation. Strong attention to detail and ability to follow written protocols precisely. Basic laboratory safety and chemical handling knowledge. Basic computer literacy (file management, spreadsheets). Comfortable with basic recordkeeping for purchasing, receipts, and expense reconciliation. Clear written and verbal communication. Willingness to flexibly shift among computational, synthesis, and instrument duties based on funding and project needs. Ability to work effectively under direct supervision and as part of a team. Prior hands-on experience with organic synthesis and structure confirmation (NMR/MS).