Junior Specialist – Pollen Lab Full-time

Junior Specialist – Pollen Lab

The Pollen Lab at UCSF is seeking a highly motivated Junior Specialist to join our research team. The successful candidate will support ongoing research using induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived models to study human brain development and evolution. Our work spans 2D and 3D culture systems, including neuronal differentiation, neural circuit assembly, and comparative studies across human and great ape cell lines.

You will be expected to engage in specialized research supporting collaborative projects across the lab. We are looking for candidates who are genuinely curious, self-directed, and take satisfaction in doing careful, reliable work. The ideal candidate is comfortable with both routine tasks and troubleshooting, communicates proactively, and contributes positively to a collaborative lab environment.

Applicants with hands-on experience in iPSC culture, differentiation, and characterization techniques are strongly encouraged to apply, as are those with proficiency in molecular biology techniques including PCR, immunofluorescence, and flow cytometry. Familiarity with single-cell genomics sample preparation or gene editing tools (CRISPR/Cas9) is a plus but not required. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds and strive to maintain an inclusive research environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Culture and maintain iPSC lines, including routine passaging, quality control, and cryopreservation
• Support differentiation of iPSCs into neural cell types using 2D and 3D culture systems
• Prepare samples for single-cell genomics workflows (10x Genomics, library preparation)
• Perform molecular biology techniques including immunofluorescence, flow cytometry, and PCR
• Prepare reagents, aliquot stocks, and maintain organized inventories
• Keep lab spaces stocked and organized, support equipment maintenance and general lab operations
• Maintain detailed and accurate records of all experiments and protocols
• Collect and organize experimental data; assist with data entry and quality control
• Collaborate with postdocs and graduate students to support their experimental workflows

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.

Required Qualifications:

• A bachelor's degree (or equivalent degree) or at least four years of research experience.
• Applicants' materials must list current and/or pending qualifications upon submission.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Familiarity with single-cell genomics sample preparation or gene editing tools (CRISPR/Cas9)
• Hands-on experience in iPSC culture, differentiation, and characterization techniques
• Proficiency in molecular biology techniques including PCR, immunofluorescence, and flow cytometry

Applicants must apply online with a CV, cover letter, and contact information for three references. Applicants' materials must list current and/or pending qualifications upon submission. 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.