Assistant Project Scientist Full-time

Assistant Project Scientist

Position overview

Position title: Assistant Project Scientist

Salary range: $76,700-$89,000

Review timeline: Candidates will be reviewed 2 weeks after posting. Final candidates will be selected a week before posting expires

Application Window

Open date: February 18, 2026

Next review date: Monday, Jun 15, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time) Apply by this date to ensure full consideration by the committee.

Final date: Tuesday, Jun 30, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time) Applications will continue to be accepted until this date, but those received after the review date will only be considered if the position has not yet been filled.

Position description

We seek an experienced scientist to advance our research at the University of California, Los Angeles Department of Neurology in the laboratory of Dr. Thomas Rando.

Research at Dr. Rando's laboratory intersects the biology of aging and stem cell biology. Our research focuses on molecular mechanisms that regulate stem cell function and tissue regeneration in adult animals. Using skeletal muscle stem cells as a model system, we study unique features of adult tissue stem cells such as quiescence and their response to tissue injury, and how these features are impacted during aging. We use a multi omics approach to identify epigenetic and metabolic changes that take place in stem cells and their niche environment in aging animals and use in vivo studies to test the effectiveness of aging interventions in reversing these changes. The successful candidate will be expected to work on multiple projects efficiently and effectively under the supervision of the PI and senior faculty. He/She should be able to carry out experiments, to analyze data with minimal direct supervision and to communicate well with scientists at all levels.

Specific Responsibilities The successful candidate will participate in designing studies with the PI or senior faculty, execute experiments in an independent manner, and assist in generating data for manuscript and grant preparation and revision. The scientist will train junior postdocs, technical staff, graduate and undergraduate researcher's common techniques and assays used in the laboratory. The scientist will also work with Lab Manager to maintain a supportive environment within the lab. Excellent bookkeeping and communication skills are a must

Qualifications

Applicants must have a PhD. Ideal candidates should have a strong background and experience in general cell and molecular biology techniques and assays. Experience in working with laboratory animals is required. Experience in flow cytometry, next generation sequencing and high-resolution microscopy is desired. 1-2 years of independent postdoctoral research experience in an academic or equivalent setting is preferred.

Application Requirements

Document requirements Curriculum Vitae – Your most recently updated C.V.

Statement of Research (Optional)

Reference check authorization release form – Complete and upload the reference check authorization release form

UCLA Mission Statement – As the nation's premier public research university, UC's mission is the creation, dissemination, preservation and application of knowledge for the betterment of our global society. We have a particular responsibility to the people of California which we express in the excellence of the education we provide, the impact of the research we do, the comprehensive, life-saving medical services we provide, and the public service mission we are devoted to. The University of California promotes the social mobility of its students, equips them with the tools and experience that furthers their ambitions, and regards their accomplishments across the life span as evidence of the profoundly positive impact of higher education.

The UCLA campus has expressed these goals in its strategic plan as follows:

Deepen our engagement with Los Angeles Expand our reach as a global university Enhance our research and creative activities Elevate how we teach Become a more effective institution

Prompt for candidates for recruitment: Reflecting on your personal and professional experiences, highlight your past contributions and future commitments to advancing UCLA's mission as embodied in the 2023-28 strategic plan. These accomplishments and ambitions may be discussed in the context of describing your teaching, scholarship, and service

Reference requirements 3-5 required (contact information only)

Only references of final candidates will be contacted

About UCLA

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

UC Anti-Discrimination Policy for Employees, Students and Third Parties

APM – 035: Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment