Junior Specialist – Nowakowski Lab Full-time

Junior Specialist – Nowakowski Lab

The Nowakowski Lab in the Department of Neurological Surgery at UCSF is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Junior Specialist to join our dynamic, multi-disciplinary research team. This position focuses on modeling neurodevelopmental disorders using human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs), including induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and embryonic stem cells (ESCs), to generate brain organoids and other in vitro models of human brain development.

The successful candidate will contribute to cutting-edge research aimed at uncovering the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric conditions—including Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), Schizophrenia, and related genetic syndromes such as microdeletion syndromes—by designing, conducting, and analyzing experiments at the intersection of stem cell biology, functional genomics, and developmental neuroscience.

This position offers an exceptional opportunity to work at the forefront of human brain research in a collaborative and innovative environment within the UCSF Weill Institute for Neurosciences.

Stem Cell Culture and Disease Modeling

• Design and execute experiments involving the culture, maintenance, and differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells
• Generate, maintain, and characterize brain organoids and multi-region assembloid models for the study of neurodevelopmental disorders
• Develop and optimize differentiation protocols to derive specific neural cell types of interest, including cortical excitatory neurons, inhibitory interneurons, and glial cells
• Establish and validate iPSC lines carrying disease-associated mutations for modeling conditions such as ASD

Molecular and Cellular Analysis

• Perform molecular biology techniques including PCR, RT-qPCR, Western blotting, immunofluorescence staining, and flow cytometry to characterize differentiated cell populations
• Apply CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing to engineer isogenic cell lines and investigate gene function and regulatory networks in stem cell-derived neural systems
• Conduct high-throughput screening experiments to identify disease-relevant phenotypes and candidate therapeutic targets
• Prepare samples for and assist with single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and single-cell ATAC sequencing (scATAC-seq) experiments

Data Analysis, Documentation, and Collaboration

• Analyze experimental data using statistical methods and contribute to computational analyses in collaboration with bioinformatics team members
• Maintain meticulous laboratory records and contribute to research publications, grant applications, and presentations
• Participate in lab meetings, journal clubs, and departmental seminars
• Assist with laboratory management, including maintaining equipment, ordering supplies, and ensuring compliance with biosafety and ethical protocols

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications

• Baccalaureate degree (or equivalent degree) in biology, neuroscience, biochemistry, bioengineering, or a related field by the time of hire; OR at least four years of research experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Hands-on experience with human pluripotent stem cell (iPSC/ESC) culture, maintenance, and differentiation
• Familiarity with brain organoid or 3D neural culture systems
• Proficiency in molecular biology techniques: PCR, Western blotting, immunofluorescence, flow cytometry
• Experience with CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing and its application in stem cell research
• Exposure to single-cell genomics workflows (scRNA-seq, scATAC-seq) or willingness to learn
• Strong organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail in maintaining laboratory records
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, multi-disciplinary team environment
• Demonstrated commitment to maintaining a safe and ethical laboratory environment

Application Requirements

Interested candidates should submit the following materials through the UC AP Recruit system:

1. Cover Letter – Describe your research interests, relevant experience, and motivation for joining the Nowakowski Lab
2. Curriculum Vitae – Including a list of publications, if applicable
3. Contact Information for 2–3 References – Letters of recommendation may be requested upon further review

Applicants' materials must list current and/or pending qualifications upon submission. The position will remain open until filled. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.

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