The Hu Lab at the San Diego State University (SDSU) Research Foundation in Chemistry and Biochemistry is developing analytical methods and models to study cell membrane permeability and identify molecular properties that facilitate this process. These studies enhance our understanding of membrane characteristics like chirality and guide the design of molecules that can effectively enter cells and function in vivo eventually, particularly beyond Rule-of-Five molecules for next-generation therapeutics and diagnostics.

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION

Under immediate supervision, the Research Specialist will assist with data collection, preparation, organization, and analysis, and will participate in other lab activities. The Specialist will assist with the protocol organization, participant recruitment, screening, scheduling, and with data acquisition and management. They will assist with analyzing behavioral performance on cognitive tasks and self-reports. They will assist with analyzing imaging data following standardized procedures. They will assist with statistical analyses and with preparation of figures for scientific presentations. They will assist with day-to- day activities to meet project needs This is an intermediate-level position for candidates who have hands-on experience working in this type of a research setting.

The Research Specialist’s responsibilities include but are not limited to:

Lab Research, Data Collection, Grant Writing 85%

• Assist with conducting material synthesis and characterization.
• Assist with preparing reagents.
• Assist lab members with running experiments, data collection, and data analysis.
• Assist with documentation and reporting on project progress to the research team.
• Assist with manuscript preparation and presentations. 

Laboratory Management 10%

• Assist with lab equipment organization.
• Assist with inventory of consumables.
• Assist with ordering and receiving lab supplies.
• Assist with items related to laboratory, chemical, and specimen safety.

Other Duties and Responsibilities as Assigned 5%

Minimum Education

• Equivalent to graduating from a four-year university

Minimum Experience

• Minimum of 1 year of experience in technical research or statistical work experience

Core Knowledge and Abilities

• Basic knowledge of complex scientific procedures and laboratory techniques.
• Ability to perform data analysis.
• Ability to perform data summary for scientific presentations.
• Ability to troubleshoot technical procedures and work independently.
• Ability to supervise laboratory staff and students.
• Proficiency in solid-phase synthesis, plate-based assays, and/or microfluidic devices fabrication.
• Strong organizational abilities, including the capacity to manage multiple tasks, prioritize workloads, and meet project deadlines.
• Strong writing and communication skills, essential for documenting research findings and collaborating with team members.
• Ability to troubleshoot and maintain scientific equipment to ensure optimal performance.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS AND SPECIAL SKILLS

• Experience in a similar role within a research laboratory setting.

ADDITIONAL APPLICANT INFORMATION:

• Candidate must reside in California and live within a commutable distance from SDSU at time of hire.
• Job offer is contingent upon satisfactory clearance based on background check results (including a criminal record check).
• San Diego State University Research Foundation is an equal opportunity employer. Consistent with California law and federal civil rights laws, SDSU Research Foundation provides equal opportunity in employment without unlawful discrimination or preferential treatment based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin or any other categories protected by federal or state law.  
• Employment decisions are based on an individual’s qualifications as they relate to the job under consideration. Our commitment to equal opportunity means ensuring that every employee has equal access to resources and support. 
• SDSU Research Foundation complies with Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the California Equity in Higher Education Act, California’s Proposition 209 (Art. I, Section 31 of the California Constitution), and other applicable state and federal anti-discrimination laws including grant or contract terms and conditions related to funded program activities. Further the SDSU Research Foundation maintains a Nondiscrimination Policy that prohibits discriminatory preferential treatment, segregation based on race or any other protected status, and all forms of unlawful discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in all programs, policies, and practices.  
• SDSU Research Foundation makes all employment decisions including, but not limited to, applicant screening, hiring, promotion, demotion, compensation, benefits, disciplinary actions, and terminations on the basis of merit.