Research Lab Technician I

USC

USC

Los Angeles, CA, USA · California, USA · Los Angeles, CA, USA
USD 25-25 / hour
Posted on Aug 27, 2025

The USC Department of Ophthalmology is seeking a Research Lab Technician I. This position is needed to support research projects that are ongoing under the supervision of Dr. Longwei Liu.

Dr. Liu's lab is currently engaged in multiple projects focused on gene and cell therapies for vision restoration, including the development of controllable CAR-T cell therapies and ultrasound-regulated gene editing platforms. The technician will play a critical role in maintaining lab operations, preparing reagents, supporting experimental protocols, and ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards.

Job Summary:

Provides basic technical assistance to other laboratory technicians in conducting research experiments. Conducts standardized tests and procedures under close supervision.

Job Accountabilities include:

  • Prepares experimental materials using laboratory protocols and safety guidelines.
  • Handles and disposes of hazardous and non-hazardous materials in accordance with safety protocols.
  • Sets up and operates standard laboratory equipment.
  • Maintains accurate records of procedures used to conduct basic experiments.
  • Performs limited routine analysis and provides basic interpretations.
  • Prepares chemical solutions under the direction of an experienced technician.
  • Stocks and maintains laboratory supplies. Monitors inventory levels and orders or secures supplies as needed.
  • Maintains laboratory environment in orderly, operable condition.
  • Learns basic laboratory safety and, if appropriate, basic radiation or blood borne pathogen safety under the direction of the USC Safety Office and more experienced laboratory staff.

Preferred Qualifications

Preferred Education: Associate's Degree; Specialized/Technical Training

Preferred Field of Expertise: Prefer familiarity with laboratory procedures and equipment.

Applicant Attachments (Required): Application/Resume

Applicant Attachments (Optional): Cover Letter

Work Location: NRT 7509, 1450 Biggy St, Los Angeles, CA 90033

Percentage of Time: 100% (Full Time); 37.5 hours/week

The salary rate range for this position is $25.00. 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 candidate's 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.

Minimum Education: High school or equivalent, Combined experience/education as substitute for minimum education
Minimum Experience: 6 - 12 months, Combined education/experience as substitute for minimum experience
Minimum Field of Expertise: Ability to follow detailed instructions, oral and written

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.

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$132517.htmld