Lab Technician (Junior/Assistant/Associate Specialist) - Douglas Lab
University of California, San Francisco
Department of Cellular & Molecular Pharmacology

Research Overview:
The Douglas Lab at UCSF (bionano.ucsf.edu) is developing new experimental and computational methods to engineer biomolecules. Our goal is to leverage the physical and chemical properties of building blocks of life for useful applications in science and medicine, such as new scientific tools to aid in cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) and to build a novel class of targeted therapeutics to treat complex diseases. In recent years we have primarily focused on using and extending the "DNA origami" method to achieve these goals, but are now pursuing new opportunities with additional types of molecules such as RNA and proteins.

Job overview:
We are seeking a Junior/Assistant/Associate Specialist to join the group and learn to design, synthesize, characterize and validate novel biomolecular designs.

A qualified candidate will assist in experimental research tasks using standard molecular biology techniques (DNA/RNA extractions, PCR, cloning, DNA/protein quantification, DNA and SDS PAGE electrophoresis). While experience is preferred, it is not strictly required, as we can train you from scratch. You will also help manage day-to-day lab operations, including ordering, equipment maintenance, buffer preparation.

We are seeking a 1-year commitment, renewable for up to 2 years. Depending on performance, opportunities for independent research, mentoring of other trainees, and scientific writing may be available. This position is ideal for someone seeking research experience towards the pursuit of graduate school or medical school.

Appointees in the Specialist series will be expected to engage in specialized research, professional activities and do not have teaching responsibilities. Specialists are expected to use their professional expertise to make scientific and scholarly contributions and may participate in University and Public Service.

Screening of applicants will begin immediately and will continue as needed throughout the recruitment period. Salary will be commensurate with the applicants' experience and training. See Table 24B for the salary range for this position. A reasonable estimate for this position is $49,000 - $78,500.

Requirements:

• Junior Specialist- B.A. in biochemistry, physics, molecular biology, computer science, or related field with adequate experience
• Assistant Specialist- A Master's degree or a bachelor's degree with 3 or more years of research experience.
• Associate Specialist- a Master's degree (or equivalent degree) or five to ten years of experience in the relevant specialization.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with other experimentalists.
• Ability to work independently.
• Candidates must meet the required qualifications at the time of appointment. Candidate's CV must state qualifications (or if pending) upon submission.

Preferred skills:

• Junior Specialist: B.S. degree
• One or more years experience in a research laboratory environment.
• Experience with molecular cloning or protein expression and purification.
• Computational skills (basic scripting, programming).
• Design experience (Figma, Illustrator, or equivalent).

Please apply online at https://aprecruit.ucsf.edu/JPF04531, with a CV, cover letter, and two references.

As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements.

UC San Francisco seeks candidates whose experience, teaching, research, or community service that has prepared them to contribute to our commitment to diversity and excellence. The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status.