Research technician jobs in San Diego, CA

San Diego State University is seeking a motivated, detail-oriented Research Technician I to support in-vivo experimentation, wet lab procedures, and daily laboratory operations within a dynamic biomedical research environment. Working under close supervision, you'll contribute to translational projects aimed at understanding molecular mechanisms of disease and advancing precision medicine. This role is ideal for someone early in their research career who is eager to develop hands-on laboratory skills and be part of a collaborative, mission-driven team. Key Responsibilities Assist with in-vivo research tasks, such as helping with routine dosing (SC/IP), monitoring animals, collecting samples, and supporting mouse colony maintenance (breeding setup and genotyping) under close supervision. Support wet lab procedures by preparing materials, following established protocols for cell culture and molecular assays (PCR/qPCR, Western Blotting, ELISA, IHC), and helping maintain clean and organized workspaces. Help gather and organize research data, including recording observations, assisting with preliminary data analysis, and preparing simple summaries or reports as directed. Contribute to routine laboratory operations, such as ordering supplies, assisting with protocol and compliance document preparation, maintaining EH&S standards, and collaborating with lab staff to keep daily workflows running smoothly. Why Join Us? Play a key role in supporting cutting-edge biomedical research Gain hands-on experience with diverse molecular and animal-based techniques Collaborate with a committed team in a highly regulated research environment Contribute to scientific discovery and the training of emerging researchers Position Information This is a full-time (1.0 time-base), benefits eligible, temporary position with an anticipated end date one year after hire, with the possibility of reappointment. This position is designated non-exempt under FLSA and is eligible for overtime compensation. Standard SDSU work hours are Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., but may vary based on operational needs. The individual hired into this role will work on campus at SDSU in San Diego. Department Summary The Department of Biology is one of the largest departments within the University. Its wide spectrum of teaching and research covers all major areas of biology and includes ~1600 majors. Degrees offered by the Department include: BA or BS in Biology, BA or BS in Microbiology, BS in Biology with optional emphases in Cell and Molecular Biology, in Ecology, in Evolution and Systematics, in Marine Biology, and in Zoology as well as preparation for the Single Subject Teaching Credential in Life Sciences; B.S. in Microbiology with optional emphasis in Clinical Laboratory Science and Public Health Microbiology; a Certificate in Biotechnology; MA or MS in Biology or in Microbiology; MA or MS with emphases in Ecology, in Evolutionary Biology, in Molecular Biology, and in Physiology; Ph.D. in Biology (with UCSD); Ph.D. in Ecology (with UC Davis) and Ph.D. in Evolutionary Biology (with UC Riverside). The Department currently generates approximately 1275 FTES per semester. As a department within the SDSU College of Sciences (CoS), we vigorously support the CoS Statement of Inclusivity, which indicates the CoS believes its strength is derived from the diversity of its faculty, staff, and students, along with their respective perspectives, experiences, and ideas. The CoS is further enriched by its location in the US-Mexico transborder region and its links to the broader Southern California community. We strive to create a community that supports and encourages the development and advancement of student leaders, staff, and faculty who invite and celebrate the ways that our differences can enhance the strength and rigor of our disciplines and our research questions. For more information regarding the Department of Biology, click here. Education and Experience Experience: One year of experience in technical research or statistical work. One year of graduate study in the social sciences, economics, mathematics, statistics, public or business administration, or engineering fields may be substituted for the required experience. and Education: Equivalent to graduation from a four-year college or university, including or supplemented by a course in statistics. Additional experience which has demonstrated that the applicant has acquired and successfully applied the knowledges and abilities delineated above may be substituted for the required education on a year-for-year basis. Key Qualifications 1 year of experience related to working directly with laboratory animals or equivalent combination of education, training and/or experience from which comparable knowledge, skills and abilities have been attained is required Excellent data presentation, verbal, and written communication skills Possess strong attention to detail, analytical, time management, and interpersonal skills. Must be flexible to work various schedules and hours including weekends and holidays when necessary. Professional proficiency in Microsoft Office, R, and ImageJ/Fiji is a plus Compensation and Benefits San Diego State University offers competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth. Compensation: Step placement will be determined based on relevant qualifications and professional experience, in alignment with the department's budget and equity guidelines. Initial step placement is not expected to exceed Step 1 ($4,595/month). CSU Classification Salary Range: $4,595-$6,694 per month (Step 1-Step 20). Future increases, including step advancements, are subject to contract negotiations. Full Benefits Package Includes: Generous Time Off: 15 paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave. Retirement: CalPERS pension plan with retiree healthcare, and reciprocal agreements with other California public retirement systems, including the UC. Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision options at low or no cost. Education Support: CSU tuition fee waiver for employees and eligible dependents. Optional Offerings: FlexCash, life and disability insurance, legal and pet plans. Campus & Community: Access to the library, campus events, employee groups, and volunteer and social activities. Our benefits are a significant part of total compensation. Learn more at the SDSU Benefits Overview. SDSU Values At SDSU, our diversity gives us power and benefits every single member of our community. Consistent with California law and federal civil rights laws, SDSU provides equal opportunity for all in education and employment. We encourage all members of our community to purposefully learn from one another through open and respectful dialogue and responsible engagement. We strongly preserve the right to free expression and encourage difficult conversations that help lead to improved individual and community learning and cohesion. Principles of Community At San Diego State University, we are a community of diverse individuals who have and represent many perspectives, beliefs, and identities. This diversity lends our community strength, and we commit to creating and sustaining an inclusive and intellectually vibrant environment that benefits all members of our university. SDSU's Principles of Community is an aspirational statement that is intended to evolve over time. The statement reflects the ideals we are encouraged to uphold in our interactions with one another. Equal Opportunity and Excellence in Education and Employment All university programs and activities are open and available to all regardless of race, sex, color, ethnicity or national origin. Consistent with California law and federal civil rights laws, San Diego State University (SDSU) provides equal opportunity in education and employment without unlawful discrimination or preferential treatment based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin. Our commitment to equal opportunity means ensuring that every student and employee has access to the resources and support they need to thrive and succeed in a university environment and in their communities. SDSU complies with Title VI 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), other applicable state and federal anti-discrimination laws, and CSU's Nondiscrimination Policy. We prohibit discriminatory preferential treatment, segregation based on race or any other protected status, and all forms of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in all university programs, policies, and practices. SDSU is a diverse community of individuals who represent many perspectives, beliefs and identities, committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and intellectually vibrant environment. We cultivate a culture of open dialogue, mutual respect, and belonging to support educational excellence and student success. Through academic programs, student organizations and activities, faculty initiatives, and community partnerships, we encourage meaningful engagement with diverse perspectives. As a higher education institution, we are dedicated to advancing knowledge and empowering individuals to reach their full potential by prioritizing inclusive curriculum development, faculty and staff training, student mentorship, and comprehensive support programs. At SDSU, excellence is built on merit, talent, diversity, accessibility, and equal opportunity for all. Supplemental Information Apply by January 4, 2026 to ensure full consideration. Applications submitted after this date will be reviewed on an as-needed basis, and the position will remain open until filled. The person holding this position is considered a ‘mandated reporter' under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and is required to comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order 1083 as a condition of employment. San Diego State University is not a sponsoring agency for staff or management positions (e.g., H-1B visa). Applicants must currently be authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. Offers of employment are contingent upon the presentation of documents that demonstrate a person's identity and authorization to work in the United States, which are consistent with the provisions of the Immigration Reform and Control Act. A background check (including a criminal records check) must be completed satisfactorily and is required for employment. SDSU will make a conditional offer of employment, which may be rescinded if the background check reveals disqualifying information, and/or it is discovered that the candidate knowingly withheld or falsified information. Failure to satisfactorily complete the background check may affect the continued employment of a current SDSU employee who was conditionally offered the position. SDSU is a smoke-free campus. For more information, please click here. Reasonable accommodations will be provided for qualified applicants with disabilities who request an accommodation by contacting Taylor Smith at tjaress@sdsu.edu.