Research Fellow

About The Lundquist Institute

The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center operates as an independent nonprofit research entity in Torrance, California. Across numerous on-campus labs, researchers study critical issues such as heart and kidney ailments, neonatal cardiac complications, chronic lung disorders, skin cancer, sickle cell disease, autoimmune dysfunctions, and more. Their collaborative projects bring together experts from diverse fields to generate breakthroughs that have improved pediatric health outcomes markedly.

Candidate Requirements

• Possession of an MD or PhD in biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, neuroscience, cancer biology, immunology, biomedical sciences or closely related areas is mandatory.
• Preferred candidates have from zero up to two years of postdoctoral research experience.
• Strong publication history including first-author papers in peer-reviewed journals.
• Expertise in molecular and cellular biology lab techniques along with comprehensive biological knowledge in related disciplines.
• Proficient in qPCR/PCR and Western blot methodologies.
• Capable of designing experiments and independently leading projects.
• Able to analyze and interpret complex biological datasets.
• Excellent communication skills in writing and speaking.
• Experience working with RNA sequencing, single-cell sequencing, bioinformatics, or multi-omics data.
• Hands-on experience with animal models and conducting in-vivo experiments.
• Familiarity with analytical tools such as R, GraphPad Prism, and ImageJ is advantageous.
• Ability to work autonomously and collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, conduct, troubleshoot, and enhance both laboratory and live model research studies.
• Lead lab initiatives focusing on cancer biology, tumor immunology, neuro-oncology, and therapeutic innovation.
• Perform complex mammalian cell culture involving patient-derived cancer models.
• Carry out molecular biological techniques including RNA extraction, qPCR, Western blotting, flow cytometry, ELISA, immunofluorescence, viability and apoptosis assays, and pathway signaling analysis.
• Analyze results and produce high-standard figures and reports suitable for publication.
• Work closely with clinical groups to support translational and correlative research projects.
• Draft scientific manuscripts, abstracts, grant proposals, presentations, and reports.
• Share research progress at lab meetings, conferences, and with collaborative partners.
• Guide and mentor junior scientists, students, and assistants in the lab.
• Keep comprehensive lab documentation and ensure adherence to all institutional and regulatory standards.

Additional Information

Applicants must submit fully completed and signed applications; incomplete applications will be disregarded. The position requires background verification and health clearance adherence. The employer is committed to equal opportunity, affirmative action, and maintaining a drug-free workplace.