Research Assistant Job at Moores Cancer Center | Apply Now
Looking for a research assistant job in the United States? Moores Cancer Center at UC San Diego is hiring a Laboratory Research Assistant to support innovative cancer biology research. This exciting biology job offers hands-on experience in molecular biology, cell biology, gene editing, and translational cancer research. If you are seeking a job in US research institutions, this opportunity provides valuable exposure to advanced scientific techniques and career development in a world-class cancer research environment.
- Job Position: Laboratory Research Assistant – Cancer Center
- Job ID: 139934
- Department: Moores Cancer Center
- Location: 3855 Health Sciences Drive, San Diego, California 92037, United States
- Application Deadline: June 18, 2026
- Salary:
- Annual Full Pay Range: $59,905 – $71,451
- Hourly Equivalent: $28.69 – $34.22
About the Center
Research assistant job opportunities at Moores Cancer Center provide access to one of the leading cancer research institutions in the United States. The Moores Cancer Center (MCC) is one of only 57 National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers in the United States and the only one in San Diego County. The center is a collaborative partnership involving UC San Diego’s schools, departments, healthcare facilities, San Diego State University, and the La Jolla Institute of Immunology.
MCC is dedicated to reducing the burden of cancer through groundbreaking scientific discoveries, innovative prevention and detection strategies, compassionate patient care, education, and community engagement. The center ranks among the nation’s top institutions for cancer research, advanced patient care, and outreach programs. The organization promotes professional growth through cross-training, career development opportunities, and progressive responsibilities in a fast-paced research environment.
Research Assistant Job Description
Research assistant job candidates will work under the guidance of experienced researchers to support cutting-edge cancer biology studies and translational research projects. The selected candidate will contribute to molecular and cellular biology research by performing gene manipulation, cellular assays, gene expression analysis, RNA interaction studies, CRISPR-based experiments, animal model research, and laboratory management activities. This biology job offers extensive hands-on experience across a broad range of modern molecular biology and cancer research techniques within a dynamic scientific environment.
Qualifications
Biology job applicants should have a strong foundation in molecular and cellular biology, along with relevant laboratory experience.
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Biology or a related field, or equivalent education and experience.
Technical & Research Skills
- Knowledge of cell and molecular biology principles.
- Experience with laboratory procedures, sterile techniques, and cell culture.
- Familiarity with DNA/RNA isolation, cloning, qRT-PCR, and electrophoresis.
- Ability to prepare chemical solutions and perform basic laboratory calculations.
- Understanding of research protocols, cellular assays, and phenotypic analysis.
- Interest in cancer biology and willingness to learn new research techniques.
Computer & Communication Skills
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and basic data entry.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and teamwork abilities.
Research Assistant Job – Key Responsibilities
Research assistant job responsibilities include supporting laboratory research projects focused on cancer biology and gene regulation. Key duties include:
- Perform gene manipulation in cell lines using RNAi and overexpression techniques.
- Study gene function and analyze resulting cellular phenotypes.
- Conduct cellular assays, including proliferation, migration, and cell signaling analyses.
- Isolate DNA and RNA samples for research applications.
- Quantify gene expression using qRT-PCR and related molecular biology techniques.
- Investigate RNA and RNA-binding protein interactions under cancer-relevant conditions.
- Assist with CRISPR/Cas9 and base editing experiments.
- Maintain mouse colonies and support transplanted tumor model studies.
- Handle animal monitoring, treatments, and sample collection activities.
- Support laboratory operations, including inventory management and equipment maintenance.
- Assist with onboarding new laboratory personnel.
- Order laboratory supplies and maintain research resources.
- Perform additional research-related duties as assigned by supervising scientists.
Why Join Moores Cancer Center?
Biology job seekers can benefit from joining one of the nation’s leading cancer research institutions. Benefits include:
- Exposure to cutting-edge cancer research.
- Hands-on experience with advanced molecular biology techniques.
- Opportunities to work with CRISPR and gene-editing technologies.
- Participation in translational research programs.
- Professional development and cross-training opportunities.
- Collaboration with leading scientists and clinician-researchers.
- Contribution to discoveries that improve patient care and public health.
