Junior Specialist- Douglas Lab

UCSF Health, AG; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 57,000 - 61,000; Full time

Job summary

UCSF is seeking a Junior Specialist for the Douglas Lab in San Francisco. The role involves learning to design, synthesize, characterize and validate novel biomolecular designs, with hands-on molecular biology tasks. Training is provided, aiming for a 1-year commitment renewable for up to 2 years.

Opportunities for independent research and mentoring may arise. The position supports lab operations, equipment maintenance, buffer preparation and day-to-day tasks, with potential for scientific

Qualifications

• B.S. in biochemistry, physics, molecular biology, computer science, or related field.
• One or more years experience in a research laboratory environment.
• Experience with molecular cloning or protein expression and purification.
• Computational skills (basic scripting, programming).
• Design experience (Figma, Illustrator, or equivalent).

Responsibilities

• Design, synthesize, characterize and validate novel biomolecular designs.
• Assist in standard molecular biology tasks (DNA/RNA extractions, PCR, cloning, quantification, gel electrophoresis).
• Help manage day-to-day lab operations (ordering, maintenance, buffers).
• Potential for independent research, mentoring, and scientific writing.

Skills

Molecular biology practices

Computational skills

Design experience

Education

B.S. degree

Tools

Molecular cloning

Protein expression/purification

Job description

Application Window

Open date: October 16, 2026

Next review date: Saturday, Oct 31, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time).

Final date: Wednesday, Apr 19, 2028 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

Junior Specialist- Douglas Lab

Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology

University of California, San Francisco

We are seeking a Junior Specialist to join the group and learn to design, synthesize, characterize and validate novel biomolecular designs. The qualified candidate will assist in experimental research tasks using standard molecular biology techniques (DNA/RNA extractions, PCR, cloning, DNA/protein quantification, DNA and SDS PAGE electrophoresis). While experience is preferred, it is not strictly required, as we can train you from scratch. You will also help manage day-to-day lab operations, including, but not limited to, ordering, equipment maintenance, buffer preparation, etc. We are seeking a 1-year commitment, renewable for up to 2 years. Depending on performance, opportunities for independent research, mentoring of other trainees, and scientific writing may be available. This position is ideal for someone seeking research experience towards the pursuit of graduate school or medical school. Appointees in the Specialist series will be expected to engage in specialized research, professional activities and do not have teaching responsibilities. Specialists are expected to use their professional expertise to make scientific and scholarly contributions and may participate in University and Public Service.

Required Qualifications:

• B.S. in biochemistry, physics, molecular biology, computer science, or related field with adequate experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• B.S. degree
• One or more years experience in a research laboratory environment.
• Experience with molecular cloning or protein expression and purification.
• Computational skills (basic scripting, programming).
• Design experience (Figma, Illustrator, or equivalent).

See Table 24B for the salary range for this position. A reasonable estimate for this position is $57,000-$60,700.

Application Requirements

Document requirements

• Curriculum Vitae - CV must clearly list current and/or pending qualifications (e.g. board eligibility/certification, medical licensure, etc.).
• Cover Letter

Reference requirements

• 3 required (contact information only)

About UC San Francisco

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 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: Affinection Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment

Job location

San Francisco, CA