The Department of Pediatrics is one of the largest departments within the School of Medicine with approximately 171 Faculty, 50 post-doctoral fellows (both MDs and PhDs) along with over 300 support staff (not including hospital staff). In addition, the Department has 57 clinical residents and fellows distributed across the Divisions. The missions of research, education and patient care are intertwined, and are integral to the goals of the department.

The Department has undergone significant growth in recent years with a consolidated budget of approximately $106 million including sponsored projects expenditures of approximately $54 million and clinical revenue of over $ 52 million. This expansion of the Department's research and clinical portfolio is expected to continue in the next few years.

The Department's 16 divisions include Academic General Pediatrics, Child Development & Community Health; Allergy, Immunology and Rheumatology; Cardiology; Dysmorphology; Emergency Medicine; Endocrinology; Gastroenterology; Genetics; Genome Information Sciences; Hospital Medicine; Host-Microbe Systems and Therapeutics; Infectious Diseases; Neonatology; Nephrology; Pharmacology & Drug Discovery; and Respiratory Medicine.

In 2001, physicians and leadership of the University of California, San Diego (UCSD), Rady Children's, and Children's Specialists of San Diego (CSSD) unified pediatric patient care, research, education and community service programs, creating a university-affiliated children's health system to serve the region. Over the past two decades, an extensive list of joint programs has developed, with many physicians and researchers playing a role at both institutions.

This affiliation has consolidated the clinical, teaching, research and public service programs of the UCSD School of Medicine's Department of Pediatrics with San Diego's only health care system dedicated to the health and well-being of children. In 2009, this partnership was furthered by the creation of Rady Children's Specialists of San Diego, a Medical Foundation, and is now recognized as having global leaders in research, technology, translational medicine, education and clinical excellence.

Under supervision, participate in research on the genetic regulation of organ formation in zebrafish. Tasks include: analysis of embryonic phenotypes through in situ hybridization and immunofluorescence, manipulation of zebrafish gene function through genome editing, maintaining strains of mutant and transgenic zebrafish, and performing basic molecular biology techniques. Will participate in the publication of scientific manuscripts based on experiments performed (when appropriate). Contribute to laboratory management including: maintenance of lab and computer equipment, routine preparation of buffers and media. Research will be performed under the supervision of Associate Clinical Professor Elliot Perens, MD PhD, within the laboratory of Distinguished Professor Gabriel Haddad, MD, Chairman of Pediatrics. Other duties assigned as needed.

• Theoretical knowledge of molecular biology, genetics, and/or developmental biology or equivalent combination of experience and education.

• Practical competency in standard recombinant DNA research techniques and standard laboratory procedures.

• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal. Ability to clearly and concisely communicate ideas, thoughts, problems, and policies, with a strong portfolio of interpersonal skills which include the ability to interact with tact, diplomacy and sensitivity.

• Demonstrated ability to organize, set priorities, meet deadlines, and efficiently carry out multiple and varied tasks during each workday.

• Ability to proactively and appropriately facilitate the maintenance of lab supplies and equipment, maintain steady levels of lab supplies and organized records.

• Experience with word processing, database, spreadsheet, and graphics software with a willingness and ability to update and increase skills and knowledge as needed.

• Ability to keep accurate records of experimental procedures and results, to discuss them, and to prepare relevant oral and written presentations.

• General knowledge of lab safety policies and procedures including hazardous materials procurement, use, storage and disposal.

• Knowledge and ability to order lab supplies and equipment, with the ability to proactively and appropriately facilitate the maintenance of all lab supplies and equipment.

• Willingness and demonstrated ability to embrace and consistently uphold the principles of community for a collaborative work environment.

• Theoretical competency in the technical underpinnings of maintaining mutant and transgenic zebrafish strains.

• Ability to conduct phenotypic characterization procedures (in situ hybridization and immunofluorescence) with reliable results.

• BA or BS in either biology and/or prior laboratory based research experience.

• Employment is subject to a criminal background check.

• Must be willing to work with hazardous materials.

• Appropriate physical strength for handling aquaculture equipment.

• Appropriate dexterity for manipulating zebrafish embryos.

• Willing to be flexible with work hours to include occasional evening or weekend work as required for animal care and experiments.