Hunt Lab – Junior Specialist

University of California, San Francisco; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 58,600; Full time

Job summary

University of California, San Francisco’s Hunt Lab is seeking a Junior Specialist in the Department of Medicine. The role involves hands-on cellular assays, lymphocyte work, and proteomics using the Olink platform in a BSL2 lab, with duties split between research and lab support.

You will perform flow cytometry, ELISA, RT‑PCR, and data analysis while maintaining meticulous records and complying with safety protocols. Collaboration with the Lab Manager is essential for operations.

Qualifications

• Baccalaureate degree in a related science or equivalent research experience.
• Ability to adapt and use good judgement when making decisions.
• Detail oriented with strong organizational skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint, and common software.
• Experience with flow cytometry, ELISA, proteomics, or related molecular methods.

Responsibilities

• Isolate lymphocytes and perform tissue processing.
• Operate flow cytometers (LSRII, Cytek Aurora, Aria) with data analysis.
• Perform plasma proteomics on Olink platform and manage data.
• Enter and manage sample/reagent inventories in the database.
• Culture cells and conduct cell-based immunologic assays.
• Perform ELISAs and nucleic acid isolation including RT‑PCR.
• Document experimental procedures and maintain records.
• Follow universal precautions in a BSL2 laboratory.
• Assist Lab Manager with ordering, organization, and inventory control.
• Organize manuals and equipment instructions; prepare aliquots of reagents.
• Maintain common lab areas and readiness of supplies.

Skills

Flow cytometry

ELISA

Proteomics

Nucleic acid isolation

RT‑PCR

Data analysis

Documentation

Organization

Communication

Education

Baccalaureate degree in related science

Tools

Microsoft Word

Excel

PowerPoint

Job description

Position Description

Hunt Lab – Junior Specialist

Department of Medicine, UC San Francisco

Responsibilities

The Junior Specialist will perform, or be trained to perform, the following research‑related functions (90% of time):

• Lymphocyte isolation and tissue processing
• Flow cytometry using LSRII, Cytek Aurora, and Aria cytometers, with data/statistical analysis and troubleshooting of outliers
• Plasma proteomics on the Olink platform (Reveal and Signature)
• Database entry and management for sample/reagent inventories
• Cell culture
• Cell based immunologic assays
• ELISAs
• Nucleic acid isolation and quantitative RT‑PCR
• Documentation of experimental procedures
• Practice/apply universal precautions while working in a BSL2 or BSL2* laboratory

Assist the Lab Manager with laboratory management, including, but not limited to the following (10% time):

• Ordering of lab supplies and reagents
• Reorganization of lab, freezer, and fridge space
• Help with the centralization of commonly used materials
• Conducting inventories for lab items
• Organization of manuals and instructions for lab equipment
• Preparation of aliquots of reagents for common use
• Maintenance of common areas in the lab

Required Qualifications

• Baccalaureate degree (or equivalent degree) in a related science or at least four years of research experience.
• Ability to adapt and use good judgement when making decisions.
• Detail oriented.
• Ability to prioritize work and tasks appropriately.
• Familiarity with use of computer and relevant programs (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.).
• Communication and organization skills.
• Experience with flow cytometry, ELISA, proteomics, or other related molecular methods.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with coding in R
• Familiarity with basic statistical methods

Salary

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

Equal Opportunity Employer

The University of California 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 status under state or federal law.

UCSF is committed to welcoming and serving all people, honoring the dignity of every individual without preference or prejudice, in support of its public mission and in alignment with our PRIDE values and Principles of Community.

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
• APM – 035: Affymative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment

San Francisco, CA