Junior Specialist - Berendzen Lab

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

Job summary

The Berendzen Lab at the University of California, San Francisco is seeking a Junior Specialist to fill a computational biologist position at the Junior level. The role centers on aging and age-related disease, using genetic, molecular, and physiologic approaches in rodent and human models, in collaboration with Psychiatry and Neurology.

The Specialist will assist with ongoing experiments and, where skill allows, conduct independent research under supervision.

Qualifications

• Strong background in bioinformatics or computational biology.
• Proficiency in R and/or Python for data processing and statistics.
• Excellent organizational and interpersonal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Assist with ongoing experiments and conduct independent analyses under guidance.
• Design and implement analyses of high-dimensional data (e.g., single-cell RNA sequencing, germline sequencing, proteomics, imaging).
• Use standard bioinformatic tools and databases to derive biologically meaningful insights and support research questions.

Skills

Bioinformatics

Computational biology

R

Python

Education

Bachelor's degree or 4 years of research experience

Job description

Junior Specialist Position - Berendzen Lab

The Berendzen Lab at the University of California, San Francisco is seeking to recruit an outstanding candidate to fill a computational biologist position at the Junior Level. Research in the Berendzen lab seeks to understand how aging and age‑related disease impact social behavior. We use a combination of genetic, molecular, and physiologic approaches in rodent and human or animal‑derived cell models, with a goal of developing better therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative and other age‑related diseases. We work collaboratively with basic scientists as well as our clinical and translational colleagues in the Departments of Psychiatry and Neurology.

Responsibilities

The role of the Specialist is to both assist with ongoing experiments and, depending on the candidate’s skill level, conduct independent research under the guidance of Dr. Berendzen and other members of the Berendzen Lab. The Specialist will learn and utilize a variety of research techniques and will have the opportunity to be a co-author on publications.

• The candidate will contribute to designing and implementing analyses of high‑dimensional data (e.g., single‑cell RNA sequencing, germline whole‑genome sequencing, proteomics, imaging data sets).
• The candidate will be able to utilize standard bioinformatics tools and databases to uncover biologically meaningful insights that address key research questions.
• The candidate will be expected to work independently with support from team members to complete independent data analysis.

Required Qualifications

• Must have (or be in process of obtaining) a baccalaureate degree (or equivalent degree) or at least four years of research experience to be appointed at the Junior rank.
• Excellent organizational and interpersonal communication skills (verbal and written).
• Willingness and ability to learn new methods and skills for changing research priorities.
• Ability to work independently and as a member of a research team.
• Ability to prioritize tasks, coordinate work tasks with others, and meet multiple deadlines.
• A strong background in bioinformatics or computational biology and use of bioinformatic tools with proficiency in R and/or Python for data processing and statistical analysis.
• Candidates must meet the required qualifications at the time of appointment.

Preferred Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree in bioengineering, data science or a related focus in computational biology.
• Prior independent research experience with standard genomic and transcriptomic analyses.
• Experience implementing and routinely documenting data analysis pipelines for research.
• Experience with cloud‑based storage and service tools.
• Interest or experience in cell modeling or CRISPR gene editing or advanced molecular biology.
• Preference for the Junior Specialist position may be given to applicants interested in pursuing a biomedical sciences PhD or MD/PhD.

Application Materials

Applicants must apply online with a CV, cover letter, and the contact information of 3 references. Candidates must meet the required qualifications at the time of appointment.

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

Document Requirements

• Curriculum Vitae – CV must clearly list current and/or pending qualifications.
• Cover Letter

Reference Requirements

• 3 required (contact information only)

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.

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 its 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: Aff. Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment

San Francisco, CA