Job Opportunities

Staff research associate (SRA) or Junior Specialist positions
available at UCSF

All job postings listed below are for positions in PROPEL-affiliated labs.  We recommend mentioning your interest in the PROPEL program in your cover letter when you apply to these positions.

For additional job postings (in both PROPEL and non-PROPEL affiliated labs) please search APrecruit using the keyword "junior" to pull up all junior specialist related positions.  You can also search Brassring using the keyword "Staff Research Associate" (another job title regularly used for postbac scholars) or the Gladstone Institute Career Page (look for "Research Associate" job postings). 

PROPEL is a very large program, so we still recommend mentioning your interest in PROPEL in your cover letter to these non-PROPEL affiliated faculty* as it may still hold some sway. (*Any UCSF faculty can become PROPEL affiliated once they hire an eligible scholar and apply to the program.)

UCSF PROPEL is also proud to partner with other postbac programs at other universities.  See our list of partners here for additional opportunities.

Genetics

Research Associate I - Conklin Lab

The Conklin Lab is part of Gladstone’s pioneering efforts in human therapeutic genome editing, with a strong focus on DNA repair mechanisms. Working in close partnership with the Innovative Genomics Institute, our lab applies advanced molecular biology techniques and cellular models to explore new strategies for correcting genetic defects. For more information, visit www.conklinlab.org.

We are seeking a Research Associate I to support ongoing projects focused on DNA repair and genome editing, particularly using motor neurons as a model system. This role offers a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of molecular and cellular biology and contribute to high-impact translational research.

What you will do:

  • Conduct experiments to study the basic mechanisms of DNA repair.
  • Perform DNA excision assays and related molecular techniques in cell culture systems.
  • Utilize motor neurons derived from stem cells as a disease-relevant model.
  • Maintain and differentiate human cell lines, including iPSC-derived neurons.
  • Analyze and document experimental data; assist with interpretation and presentation.
  • Collaborate with team members across projects and contribute to lab meetings and discussions.
  • Ensure compliance with lab protocols, safety standards, and institutional guidelines.

What you will need:

  • Bachelor’s degree (BA/BS) in Biology, Molecular Biology, Genetics, or a related discipline (preferred).
  • Prior experience working in a biological research laboratory (required).
  • Familiarity with molecular biology techniques, such as PCR, DNA/RNA extraction, gel electrophoresis, and cloning (preferred).
  • Experience with cell culture, especially human or stem cell-derived lines (preferred).
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Detail-oriented, highly organized, and capable of working independently or in a team environment.
  • Strong interest in genome editing and human disease modeling.

*Individuals intending to pursue graduate studies in biomedical sciences are strongly encouraged to apply.

Hiring Range:

$27-$31hr

Apply at: https://gladstone.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/careers/job/Research-Associate-I--Conklin-Lab_REQ-3155

Junior/Assistant/Associate/Full Specialist - Singh Lab

SCHOOL OF MEDICINE – Department of Anatomy

Description

The Singh Lab at UCSF (www.singhlabucsf.org) is seeking a highly motivated Junior/Assistant/Associate/Full Specialist to join our research program at the intersection of aging biology, genomics, and machine learning. Our lab is tackling the fundamental questions in the field of aging using a multi-disciplinary approach. We integrate cutting-edge single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and other multi-omics datasets with advanced machine learning techniques to decipher the intricate genomic changes that drive aging and age-related diseases. We not only work with human and mouse data – we're also exploring the remarkable biology of the African killifish, a powerful model organism for aging research. By comparing genomic patterns across species, we aim to identify conserved processes that underlie aging and develop innovative strategies to promote healthy lifespan.

As a Junior/Assistant/Associate/Full Specialist in our lab, you will:

  • Spearhead the development and application of novel AI/ML algorithms to analyze large-scale scRNA-seq datasets related to aging.
  • Uncover hidden patterns and predict age-related changes and 'aging clocks' at the single-cell level.
  • Identify key genes, pathways, and cell types that contribute to aging and age-related diseases.
  • Collaborate with a dynamic team of researchers with multi-disciplinary expertise in genomics, bioinformatics, and aging biology.
  • Contribute to a vibrant research community at UCSF, including the Bakar Aging Research Institute (BARI) and the Bakar Computational Health Sciences Institute (BCHSI).

Required qualifications:

  • Must have (or be in process of obtaining) a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent degree) or four years of research experience to be appointed at the Junior rank.
  • Must have (or be in process of obtaining) a master’s degree (or equivalent degree) or a bachelor's degree with three or more years of research experience to be appointed at the Assistant rank.
  • Must have (or be in process of obtaining) a master's degree (or equivalent degree) five to ten years of research experience to be appointed at the Associate rank.
  • Must have (or be in process of obtaining) a terminal degree (or equivalent degree) or at least ten or more years of research experience to be appointed at the Full rank.

Preferred Qualification:

  • Proven experience analyzing scRNA-seq, scATAC-seq or spatial-RNA-seq data.
  • Proven experience expertise in AI/ML applied to genomic data.
  • Proficiency in Python and relevant libraries for machine learning (e.g., scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch).

We will consider applications on a rolling basis until all positions are filled. We are seeking at least a 2-year commitment. Applicants must meet requirements by the time of the appointment.

Please apply online at https://aprecruit.ucsf.edu/JPF05498

See Table 24B for the salary range for this position. A reasonable estimate for this position is $53,100-$188,200.

Research Specialist - Sangokoya Lab

The Sangokoya Lab at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) Parnassus campus has an opening for a research specialist. The lab is centered on 1) the investigation of two-dimensional and three-dimensional mammalian stem cell models (basic stem cell biology) and 2) human liver pathobiology (liver pathology, cell-based tissue culture models). Both areas focus on the biological effects of RNA-based regulation on development, biology, and disease both in-vitro and in-vivo models as well as human tissue.

A research specialist in the Sangokoya Lab will be a key laboratory member assisting with management of daily operations of the lab, assisting with ongoing experiments, and acting as an interfacing point of contact for lab activities and maintenance as necessary. The ideal candidate will have a high level of organization and be a strong communicator, ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements, including maintaining laboratory spaces and equipment. Additionally, the candidate will have the opportunity to contribute, learn, and utilize a variety of research techniques as aligned with previous experience, skills, and expertise.

All specialist responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Administrative lab duties including; lab schedules, staff onboarding, and ensuring compliance with safety guidelines.
  • Manage daily lab operations including; organizing the lab space, maintaining a sterile and well-stocked lab environment, inventory, ensuring equipment and maintenance.
  • Assist with research projects, with the capability to work independently.
  • Have and maintain up-to-date general knowledge of molecular biology techniques as necessary to complete tasks and projects.
  • If background is wet-lab-based, should have or be amenable to acquiring basic computational biology (analysis) skills including analysis of sequencing datasets (RNA-seq, single-cell RNA-seq, spatial analysis), image-based analysis (i.e. Imaris, ImageJ, FIJI-based programs). Other knowledge areas (protein-based, chemical biology, engineering) considered as related to current opportunities in lab.
  • Additional responsibilities may include: performing molecular biology techniques including RNA/DNA extraction, PCR, basic protein preparations/analysis (i.e. western blot) plasmid preparation and basic cloning, performing imaging/cytometry techniques including immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry, performing basic data analysis, scientific writing, mouse work including handling/imaging/dissection. Prior experience in these areas are highly valued, but comparable expertise and skills in relevant scientific areas not listed will be considered.

The specialist will be expected to work well as part of a team, yet be able to work independently with high regard for rigorous standards. The specialist will have enthusiasm for the practice of science, and be a positive lab citizen. This position is ideal for a candidate with a background in laboratory-based biology or complementary scientific backgrounds including molecular biology, bioengineering, biochemistry, and chemical biology.

Required Qualifications:

  • Specialists appointed at the junior rank must possess a Baccalaureate degree (or equivalent degree) or at least four years of research experience.
  • Specialists appointed at the Assistant rank must possess a Master’s degree or a baccalaureate degree with 3 or more years of research experience.
  • Specialists appointed at the Associate rank must possess a Master’s degree (or equivalent degree) or five to ten years of experience in the relevant specialization.
  • Specialists appointed at the full rank must possess a terminal degree (or equivalent degree) or ten or more years of experience in the relevant specialization.
  • Excellent organizational and analytical skills.
  • Excellent interpersonal communication (verbal and written).
  • Ability to work independently, prioritize and coordinate tasks, and meet multiple deadlines.
  • Applicant must have all requirements met by time of hire.
  • Applicants’ materials must list current and/or pending qualifications upon submission.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Prior laboratory-based research experience.
  • Prior experience with data analysis and/or image analysis, molecular biology and biochemistry techniques, cell culture ----are considered a plus.
  • If background is wet-lab-based, the specialist should have or be amenable to acquiring basic computational biology (analysis) skills including analysis of sequencing datasets (RNA-seq, single-cell RNA-seq, spatial analysis), image-based analysis (i.e. Imaris, ImageJ, FIJI-based programs). Other knowledge areas (protein-based, chemical biology, engineering) considered as related to current opportunities in lab.
  • Experience in microscopy, imaging; confocal or other advanced microscopy preferred.
  • Experience in programming/coding-based analysis of datasets using R-based (or other programming language) programs.
  • Scientific curiosity and a strong motivation to contribute to the field.

See Table 24B for the salary range for this position. A reasonable estimate for this position is $53,100 - $188,200.

Please apply online at https://aprecruit.ucsf.edu/JPF05414.