In 2022, businessman and philanthropist T. Denny Sanford committed $150 million to the creation of the Sanford Stem Cell Institute at UC San Diego. This gift combines current infrastructure with new Centers intended to leverage the advantages of space-based science, including expansion and, in some ways, quite literally launch stem cell research and regenerative medicine at UC San Diego into new spaces, endeavors, and training of future stem cell scientists.

Sanford Stem Cell Institute provides essential physical and human resources needed to leverage stem cell research currently being conducted at UC San Diego. Due to the complexity of regenerative medicine projects and substantial institutional investment, daily Sanford Stem Cell Institute personnel work with all 9 Vice Chancellor areas: Academic Affairs; Research Affairs; Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion; Student Affairs; Marine Sciences; Health Sciences; Health System; Chief Financial Officer; Advancement; Resource Management and Planning.

As part of UC San Diego, Sanford Stem Cell Institute motivates University-wide change, sustainability, and partnership, focusing on creating the structure under which various innovative regenerative medicine units and initiatives are developed. The new UC San Diego Sanford Stem Cell Institute builds upon a $100 million gift in 2013 from T. Denny Sanford that established UC San Diego as a leader in developing and delivering the therapeutic promise of human stem cells - special cells with the ability to develop into many different cell types and which, when modified and repurposed, have the potential to treat, remedy or cure a vast array of conditions and diseases.

The new UC San Diego Sanford Stem Cell Institute includes six (6) stem cell Centers led by Center Directors and Deputy Directors.

1. Sanford Integrated Space Stem Cell Orbital Research (ISSCOR) Center, for stem cell research that will be conducted in a laboratory bay located aboard the International Space Station currently in low-Earth orbit.

2. Sanford Stem Cell Fitness and Space Medicine Center, which conducts in-depth space fitness and orbital medicine that can benefit both astronauts and people living on Earth.

3. Sanford Stem Cell Innovation Center, which will support regenerative medicine company development, including contract research in low-Earth orbit.

4. Sanford Stem Cell Discovery Center, which conducts basic and translational stem cell research.

5. Sanford Advanced Therapy Center, which provides fundamental tools and services to move basic research findings to next stages, such as early phase trials.

6. Sanford Stem Cell Clinical Center, which conducts research to accelerate relevant drug and therapy development in regenerative medicine, including clinical trials.

The ISSCOR Mass Spectrometry Specialist will be a key member of the research team at the Integrated Space Stem Cell Orbital Research (ISSCOR) Center. The primary focus of this role is to operate, troubleshoot, and maintain advanced mass spectrometry equipment, including the ThermoFisher Astral, while preparing and processing biological samples for space-based research applications, such as stem cell organoids destined for low Earth orbit.

The specialist will run high-level analytical experiments, with particular emphasis on proteomics, and work closely with other team members on the development and implementation of novel methods and workflows to support the ISSCOR research objectives. The ideal candidate will have strong technical expertise in mass spectrometry and a commitment to advancing cutting-edge space-based stem cell research. Additionally, they will be involved in processing stem cell-derived organoids and biological materials for space biology projects.

In addition to mass spectrometry operations, the specialist will perform sample preparation, including proteins and protein complexes extraction from different matrices, including protein enrichment for proteomic analysis. They will assist in the laboratory and sample organization, perform routine equipment maintenance, troubleshoot analytical issues, and ensure the laboratory remain in high standard of safety and cleanliness. The incumbent will also support the transfer of large datasets for analysis and work collaboratively with bioinformaticians and data scientists, data sharing and upload data in public repositories, as well on the interpretation of mass spectrometry data. Moreover, the specialist will facilitate ISSCOR project coordination by working closely with faculty and researchers to schedule experiments, optimize workflows, and encourage greater utilization of ISSCOR's mass spectrometry capabilities.

• Theoretical knowledge in analytical chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology, or related field as typically acquired with an advanced degree generally, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Knowledge of and experience with mass spectrometry techniques, such as sample preparation, troubleshooting, and data analysis for proteomics.

• Experience with high-throughput mass spectrometry platforms, specifically Orbitrap Thermo Fisher systems, and preparing biological samples, including protein extractions and stem cell organoids, for analysis.

• Ability to carry out analytical research techniques, including maintaining clear and accurate records. Skill in updating and maintaining databases and managing large datasets for analysis.

• Experience with maintaining sterile technique during sample preparation and handling biological materials for mass spectrometry.

• Ability to use personal computers and software packages for data analysis, presentations, and communication, including Microsoft Office suite, mass spectrometry data processing software, and e-mail systems.

• Ability to work both independently and as part of a diverse, multidisciplinary team in a fast-paced research environment.

• Ability to learn new protocols and analytical techniques quickly, including adapting to new software environments and equipment.

• Familiarity with proteomics workflows, including sample preparation and mass spectrometry-based analysis of biological samples.

• Seven years of related experience, education/training, OR an Bachelor's degree in related area plus three years of related experience/training.

• Good interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate with faculty, students, staff, and external collaborators from diverse backgrounds, and present data and results clearly.

• Employment is subject to a criminal background check.

• Occasional evenings and weekends may be required.

• Must be willing to work near labs where biological, chemical, and radiation hazards are present and animals and human embryonic stem cells are used in research.

• Must be willing to work with hazardous materials.