Junior Specialist - Nowakowski Lab

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

Job summary

The Nowakowski Lab at UCSF is seeking a highly motivated Junior Specialist to join our research team in San Francisco. You will design, conduct, and analyze experiments focused on stem cell biology, cellular differentiation, and disease modeling using brain organoids.

Ideal candidates have hands-on experience with stem cell culture, molecular biology techniques, and gene editing, plus strong communication skills and a commitment to safe, ethical lab practices.

Qualifications

• Experience with stem cell culture, differentiation, and characterization.
• Proficient in PCR, Western blotting, immunofluorescence, and flow cytometry.
• Familiarity with CRISPR/Cas9 and applying gene editing to stem cells.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute experiments on stem cell differentiation and characterization.
• Develop protocols for differentiation into specific cell types.
• Perform high-throughput screening and gene editing to study gene function.
• Collaborate with genomics, bioinformatics, and drug discovery teams.
• Analyze data using statistical and bioinformatic tools.
• Present findings in meetings, conferences, and publications.
• Contribute to grant proposals and reports.
• Maintain detailed records.
• Stay current with advancements in stem cell research.

Skills

Stem cell culture

Molecular biology techniques

CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing

Data analysis & statistics

Communication skills

Lab safety and ethics

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent

4+ years of research experience

Tools

Flow cytometer

Western blot apparatus

Immunofluorescence microscope

Job description

Junior Specialist - Nowakowski Lab

The Nowakowski Lab at UCSF is seeking a highly motivated scientist to join our dynamic research team. The successful candidate will be responsible for designing, conducting, and analyzing experiments related to stem cell biology, focusing on cellular differentiation and disease modeling using brain organoids. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting‑edge research and therapeutic development in a collaborative and innovative environment.

Ideal candidates will have hands‑on experience with stem cell culture, differentiation, and characterization techniques, proficiency in molecular biology techniques (PCR, Western blotting, immunofluorescence, flow cytometry), familiarity with gene editing tools (e.g., CRISPR/Cas9) and their application in stem cell research. Candidates with a strong problem‑solving mindset, creative experimental design, strong communication skills (written and verbal), and commitment to a safe and ethical laboratory environment are essential. Applicants appointed at the Junior rank must possess a Baccalaureate degree (or equivalent) or at least four years of research experience by the time of hire. Applicants’ materials must list current and/or pending qualifications upon submission.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute experiments involving the culture, differentiation, and characterization of various stem cell types, including embryonic stem cells (ESCs), induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), and adult stem cells.
• Develop and optimize protocols for the differentiation of stem cells into specific cell types of interest.
• Perform high‑throughput screening and gene editing (e.g., CRISPR/Cas9) to investigate gene function and regulatory networks in stem cell biology.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to integrate stem cell research with other disciplines, such as genomics, bioinformatics, and drug discovery.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data using statistical and bioinformatic tools.
• Prepare and present research findings in internal meetings, conferences, and peer‑reviewed publications.
• Contribute to the writing of grant proposals and reports to secure funding for research projects.
• Maintain detailed and accurate records of all experiments and protocols.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in stem cell research and related fields.

Salary: $55,000 - $58,600 (Refer to Table 24B for detailed range).

Equal Opportunity Statement

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 alignment with PRIDE values and Principles of Community.

Location: San Francisco, CA.