Pownall Lab – Full Specialist Full-time NEW

Pownall Lab – Full Specialist

The Pownall Lab at UCSF is seeking a Full Specialist interested in understanding the molecular mechanisms controlling chromatin structure and function in developing zebrafish embryos using advanced microscopy methods. The candidate will be responsible for independently designing and performing experiments, including but not limited to zebrafish breeding and embryo microinjection, mammalian cell culture, molecular cloning and in vitro RNA synthesis, immunostaining, confocal microscopy, expansion microscopy, DNA and RNA FISH, and quantitative image analysis. The candidate will also contribute to the preparation of publications and grant applications. The candidate will help to oversee day-to-day operations of the lab, including ordering laboratory supplies, maintaining lab organization, and ensuring compliance with safety standards, and will assist with zebrafish care and husbandry as needed. This position will be focused on ChromExM technology development and applications, including managing collaborations to apply ChromExM to other systems and training and mentoring lab members and collaborators. The candidate is expected to operate with a high degree of independence, including taking ownership of experimental direction, troubleshooting, and execution with minimal oversight. The ideal start date is no later than September 2026.

Required Qualifications:

• PhD degree (or equivalent degree) in molecular biology or a closely related field (e.g., genetics, cell biology) or ten or more years of relevant research experience.
• Demonstrated experience in vertebrate embryology (fish, frog, or mouse).
• Broad expertise in advanced microscopy.
• A record of research productivity, including peer-reviewed publications.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with super-resolution microscopy (SMLM, STED, SIM, etc.).
• Candidates with experience in highly collaborative environments and a track record of training and mentoring others will be preferred.
• Demonstrate strong initiative in independently identifying, prioritizing, and communicating experimental and organization needs.
• Successful candidates will be extremely detail-oriented, highly organized, collaborative, and enjoy protocol development.

See Table 24B for the salary range for this position. A reasonable estimate for this position is $93,200-$194,800.

Please submit a cover letter, CV, and contact information for two references. Applicant materials must list current and/or pending qualifications upon submission. The selected candidate must meet all the qualifications at the time of appointment.