Junior Specialist – Kaufman Lab, Department of Neurology Full-time

Junior Specialist – Kaufman Lab, Department of Neurology

The Kaufman Lab at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) is seeking a Junior Research Specialist to join our team. We are dedicated to understanding the mechanisms that lead to tau aggregation and neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease and other tauopathies. Our research utilizes cutting-edge CRISPR-based functional genomics tools in iPSC-derived neurons and glia in combination with human histopathologic samples to identify novel pathways that regulate tau aggregation and toxicity. We integrate these tools with flow cytometry, imaging, biochemical, transcriptomic, and proteomic approaches to understand disease mechanisms.

The applicant will work as a member of a research team actively involved in specialized research activities through developing innovative, CRISPR/Cas9-based functional genomics approaches to understand disease mechanisms and to identify potential therapeutic strategies for human tauopathies. The applicant will perform critical cell culture, biochemistry, and CRISPR-based techniques. The applicant must be willing to work in a team, be organized, enjoy problem-solving, and have strong communication skills. As you become familiar with our methodology, there will be opportunities to work independently on research projects. Based on your interest and expertise, you will be able to contribute to bioinformatics analysis of data as well.

Responsibilities:

• Performing experiments based on mammalian cell culture (including iPSCs and iPSC-derived neurons and glia)
• Molecular biology (including construction of DNA vectors, PCR, molecular cloning, and qPCR)
• Preparation of samples for next-generation sequencing
• Flow cytometry and downstream analysis
• Basic biochemistry (western blot analysis) and immunohistochemistry of fixed cells
• Imaging based analysis with automated plate imaging systems and/or confocal microscopy
• Maintaining records of experimental protocols and findings along with contributing to data analysis
• Participating in shared lab responsibilities, such as ordering, organizing, and shipping supplies and regents

Required Qualifications:

• A bachelor's degree (or equivalent degree) in the fields of Biology, Molecular Biology, Neuroscience, Bioengineering or related fields in the life or medical sciences or at least four years of research experience.
• Applicants' materials must list current and/or pending qualifications upon submission.

Technical Qualifications:

• Demonstrated experience in performing cell culture protocols.
• Working knowledge of basic lab techniques and molecular biology methods, or an equivalent combination of relevant education and experience.
• Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations and statistical tests in spreadsheet formats.
• Excellent record-keeping, organizational abilities, and interpersonal communication (verbal and written).
• Ability to work independently, prioritize and coordinate tasks, and meet multiple deadlines.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Expertise in human pluripotent stem cell maintenance, differentiation of stem cells, and biological assay development.
• Biochemistry and molecular biology expertise including RNA, and DNA purification, qPCR, western blotting, flow cytometry.
• Experience with immunohistochemistry and/or imaging techniques.
• Bioinformatics experience.

Application Requirements:

• Curriculum Vitae – CV must clearly list current and/or pending qualifications.
• Cover Letter.
• Reference requirements: 3 required (contact information only).
• This position requires a minimum two-year commitment.

Application Process: Please apply online at [Please click the Apply button for the link or address], with a CV, cover letter, and contact information for three references. Applicants must have qualifications by time of hire.

See Table 24B for the salary range for this position. A reasonable estimate for this position is $55,000 – $58,600.