Research Associate I-Heart Institute, Cheng Lab

About Cedars-Sinai and Smidt Heart Institute

Cedars-Sinai is a world-class academic medical center known for innovation, excellence in patient care, and groundbreaking research. The Smidt Heart Institute is internationally recognized for its comprehensive cardiovascular programs and commitment to translational science.

Dr. Susan Cheng is an internationally acclaimed clinician-scientist and academic leader specializing in cardiovascular aging. She has secured continuous NIH funding for her innovative research focused on identifying the biological drivers of cardiovascular health and disease. With over 450 peer-reviewed publications in prestigious journals such as JAMA, Circulation, and The New England Journal of Medicine, Dr. Cheng’s work has significantly advanced understanding in her field.

Her leadership in clinical research is exemplified by founding the largest COVID-19 clinical research program on the West Coast during the early stages of the pandemic. More recently, she has spearheaded critical studies examining the public health impacts of the 2025 Los Angeles wildfires. Dr. Cheng’s research excellence has been recognized with multiple awards and has contributed to establishing Cedars-Sinai as a global leader in biomedical sciences.

Come join Dr. Cheng’s Team!

Job Summary:

Working under direct supervision, the Research Associate I performs a variety of routine experimental protocols and procedures to support the objectives of one or more laboratory research projects in a specific area of research. Assists in general laboratory activities, including maintenance of reagents and stocking of supplies. Files and monitors documents. Keeps accurate and detailed records of experiments and results. Assists in the operation of specialized equipment and machinery. Observes safety standards and procedures. The Research Assistant I will be able to perform routine cellular, micro- and molecular biology procedures including, but not limited to Western, Northern blot, DNA/RNA, PCR, protein extraction, cell culture, Immunohistochemistry, and staining. This position does not have supervisory responsibilities.

Primary Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Performs a variety of routine laboratory tasks and procedures.
•  Keeps accurate and detailed project records of experiments and results.
• May assist with animal husbandry.
• Maintains lab equipment and related records.
• Transports, processes and logs samples.
• Maintains computer database with relevant clinical information.
• Performs lab maintenance duties, including glassware cleaning and sterilization.
• Maintains stocks of general lab materials, and places orders for lab equipment and supplies.
• Assists new students and fellows at the laboratory.
• Assists in the operation of specialized equipment and machinery.