Research Specialist - Greig Lab
University of California, San Francisco
Department of Ophthalmology

About Us: The Greig lab investigates genetic regulation of cell identity acquisition in the retina to inform development of stem cell therapies for currently irreversible causes of vision loss. The retina is a complex brain structure comprised of over 50 neuron types that are tasked with detecting light and processing this raw input to begin extracting visual information. We are interested in understanding how gene regulatory networks direct neural progenitors to generate these diverse classes and subtypes of retinal neurons, and how these neurons assemble into functional neural circuits. Our second goal is to formulate therapeutic strategies to repair retinal pathology by applying these basic developmental biology insights. In particular, we aim to reprogram Muller glia into replacement retinal ganglion cells or photoreceptors.

Position Overview: We are seeking an enthusiastic and talented research specialist at the junior level to join our dynamic team. The specialist will gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge approaches, contribute to exciting research projects, and develop advanced technical and analytical skills. This is an excellent opportunity for those interested in pursuing graduate school, medical school, and careers in biotech.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide technical assistance to graduate students and postdoctoral fellows in techniques such as cloning, immunohistochemistry, fluorescence imaging, and functional genetic studies in mice.
• Conduct experiments under the direct supervision of the Principal Investigator, with opportunities to develop and work on independent research projects.
• Assist in preparing figures for publications and grants, gaining authorship on research papers.
• Oversee and maintain a mouse colony, including genotyping.
• Manage general lab organization, including ordering supplies, maintaining inventories, and adhering to safety regulations.

Required Qualifications:

• Junior Rank: Baccalaureate degree in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or related field (or in process of obtaining) or at least four years of research experience.
• Efficient and organized with meticulous record-keeping skills.
• Highly motivated, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Applicant's materials must list (pending) qualifications upon submission.
• Applicants must have obtained the degree requirement for the Specialist rank by the time of hire.

Preferred Qualifications:

• At least one year of laboratory experience.
• Familiarity with molecular biology techniques (primer design, PCR, genotyping, cloning).
• Basic histology skills (cryostat sectioning, immunostaining).
• Prior training in microscopy (brightfield, epifluorescent, and confocal).
• Experience with rodent husbandry (colony management, genotyping).

What We Offer:

• A stimulating and supportive research environment.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• The chance to contribute to impactful research in the field of life sciences.

See Table 24B for the salary range for this position. A reasonable estimate for this position is $53,100 - $56,600.

Please apply online at https://aprecruit.ucsf.edu/JPF05559.

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.

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.

As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct.
* "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer.
* UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/4000385/SVSH
* UC Anti-Discrimination Policy: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination
* APM - 035: Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment: https://www.ucop.edu/academic-personnel-programs/_files/apm/apm-035.pdf