Sr. Research Specialist

NATIONAL LEADERS IN PEDIATRIC CARE
Ranked among the top 10 pediatric hospitals in the nation, Children's Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA) provides the best care for kids in California.

Here world-class experts in medicine, education and research work together to deliver family-centered care half a million times each year. From primary to complex critical care, more than 350 programs and services are offered, each one specially designed for children.

The CHLA of the future is brighter than can be imagined. Investments in technology, research and innovation will create care that is personal, convenient and empowering. Our scientists will work with clinical experts to take laboratory discoveries and create treatments that are a perfect match for every patient. And together, CHLA team members will turn health care into health transformation.

Join a hospital where the work you do will matter—to you, to your colleagues, and above all, to our patients and families. The work will be challenging, but always rewarding.

It's Work That Matters.
Overview
Schedule:
Monday-Friday with occasional evening and weekend hours required.

Purpose Statement/Position Summary
The Matho Lab at Children's Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA) is seeking a highly motivated, creative, and collaborative Research Specialist to investigate the developmental trajectories of cortical circuits for motor control. Led by Dr. Katherine Matho, Assistant Professor at USC, our lab focuses on understanding the molecular, cellular, and circuit mechanisms underlying sensorimotor integration and motor output in the brain.

We leverage cutting-edge technologies—including developmental genetics, mouse disease models, novel genetic knock-in tools, advanced microscopy (STP), and next-generation sequencing—to link developmental events with adult brain cell type diversity and connectivity.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and run a high-throughput neuroanatomical mapping pipeline using RNA barcoding techniques
• Assess molecular and connectivity signatures at cellular resolution across the whole brain in both neurotypical and neurodevelopmental disorder models
• Design gene editing approaches (RNA interference, overexpression)
• Manage mouse colony, perform stereotaxic surgeries, and prepare tissue samples
• Conduct whole-brain serial two-photon tomography (STP) to map cell distributions and axon projections

The Matho Lab is committed to mentoring the next generation of developmental biologists and neuroscientists. We foster a culture rooted in curiosity, scientific rigor, and respect for diverse perspectives.

Minimum Qualifications/Work Experience:
Candidates must meet
one
of the following sets of criteria:

• Master's degree (or higher) in a related scientific field (e.g., biology, microbiology, biochemistry, psychology)
• At least 3 years of independent laboratory research experience
• At least 2 years of supervisory experience

OR

• Bachelor's degree in a related scientific field
• At least 6 years of independent laboratory research experience
• At least 4 years of supervisory experience

Education/Licensure/Certification:
Candidates must possess the required academic background as outlined above. No additional licensure or certification is required beyond the stated degrees and experience.

Pay Scale Information
$68,640.00-$99,341.00

CHLA values the contribution each Team Member brings to our organization. Final determination of a successful candidate's starting pay will vary based on a number of factors, including, but not limited to education and experience within the job or the industry. The pay scale listed for this position is generally for candidates that meet the specified qualifications and requirements listed on this specific job description. Additional pay may be determined for those candidates that exceed these specified qualifications and requirements. We provide a competitive compensation package that recognizes your experience, credentials, and education alongside a robust benefits program to meet your needs. CHLA looks forward to introducing you to our world-class organization where we create hope and build healthier futures.

Children's Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA) is a leader in pediatric and adolescent health both here and across the globe. As a premier Magnet teaching hospital, you'll find an environment that's alive with learning, rooted in care and compassion, and home to thought leadership and unwavering support. CHLA is dedicated to creating hope and building healthier futures - for our patients, as well as for you and your career

CHLA has been affiliated with the Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California since 1932.

At Children's Hospital Los Angeles, our work matters. And so do each and every one of our valued team members. CHLA is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We consider qualified applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, national origin, sex, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran or military status, genetic information or any other legally protected basis under federal, state or local laws, regulations or ordinances. We will also consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of state and local laws, including the LA City Fair Chance Ordinance and SF Fair Chance Ordinance.

Qualified Applicants with disabilities are entitled to reasonable accommodation under the California Fair Employment and Housing Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Please contact CHLA Human Resources if you need assistance completing the application process.

Our various experiences, perspectives and backgrounds allow us to better serve our patients and create a strong community at CHLA.

TSRI