Edinger Lab - Junior Specialist

University of California - Irvine; Irvine (CA); On-site; USD 57,000 - 61,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of California, Irvine invites applications for a Junior Specialist in the Edinger Lab within the Department of Developmental & Cell Biology. This position combines lab technician duties with lab management responsibilities to support diverse cell and molecular biology experiments.

The candidate will design and perform experiments using techniques such as molecular cloning, mammalian cell culture, qRT-PCR, Western blotting, and CRISPR-Cas9, under supervision.

Qualifications

• Lab experience in cell and molecular biology.
• Strong organizational and record-keeping skills.
• Willingness to learn and collaborate.

Responsibilities

• Design and perform diverse cell and molecular biology experiments under supervision of the PI and senior staff.
• Maintain accurate records of laboratory work and administrative activities.
• Assist with lab management tasks, including ordering, equipment maintenance, and lab safety.

Job description

Position overview

Salary range: A reasonable estimate for this position is $57,000 - $60,700. See Specialist Series - Represented Fiscal Year, Exempt) and Specialist Series - Represented Fiscal Year, Non-Exempt.

Application Window

Open date: October 12, 2026

Next review date: Tuesday, Oct 27, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)

Final date: Thursday, Dec 31, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time) Applications will continue to be accepted until this date, but those received after the review date will only be considered if the position has not yet been filled.

Position description

The Edinger Lab in the Department of Developmental & Cell Biology at the University of California, Irvine invites applicants for a Junior Specialist. This Junior Specialist position (lab technician + lab manager) requires an applicant with research lab experience sufficient to allow them to design and perform diverse cell and molecular biology experiments under the supervision of the PI and senior laboratory personnel. Techniques employed in this cancer biology laboratory include molecular cloning, recombinant protein purification, mammalian cell culture, qRT-PCR, gel electrophoresis, Western blotting, CRISPR-Cas9 mediated gene-knockdown, viral transduction for over-expression, fluorescence microscopy, and mouse tumor models. Previous experience with at least a subset of these techniques is essential. Lab management is also a component of this position (ordering, equipment/lab maintenance, lab safety, etc.). Complete and accurate record keeping of both laboratory work and administrative activities will be a critical part of this position.

A successful candidate will be intellectually curious, have a growth mindset, demonstrate excellent organizational skills, work well with others, and will be highly self-motivated. Preferred candidates hold a BA or BS degree and those considering attending graduate or professional school in the future are strongly encouraged to apply. Additional information about Dr. Edinger and the lab can be found at the lab website, Edinger Lab | UC Irvine - School of Biological Sciences.

Lab: https://edingerlab.bio.uci.edu/

Qualifications

Basic qualifications required at time of application

Accepting all applications.

Application Requirements

Document requirements

• Cover Letter
• Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.
• Summary of past research accomplishments and future goal
• Statement of Research (Optional)
• Reflective Teaching and Mentoring Statement - See our guidance for writing a reflective teaching statement. (Optional)

Reference requirements

• 3 required (contact information only)

About UC Irvine

The University of California, Irvine is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories covered by the UC anti-discrimination policy.

As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct.

• "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment or discrimination, as defined by the employer.
• UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
• UC Anti-Discrimination Policy for Employees, Students and Third Parties
• APM - 035: Affimative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment.

As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements.

Job location

Irvine, CA