Martens Lab – Junior or Assistant Specialist

University of California - San Francisco; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 70,700; Full time

Job summary

The University of California - San Francisco is hiring a Junior or Assistant Specialist in their Martens Lab. This role involves supporting research in mammalian tissue biology, including handling experimental workflows and laboratory operations. Ideal candidates should possess at least a baccalaureate degree in biological sciences or relevant research experience. Located in San Francisco, the position offers a salary range of $55,000–$70,700 depending on qualifications and experience. The lab fosters a collaborative environment aimed at long-term research training.

Qualifications

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to follow established research protocols and maintain accurate records.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a research environment.

Responsibilities

• Support ongoing research in mammalian tissue biology.
• Assist with experimental workflows in animal and cell-based systems.
• Maintain day-to-day laboratory operations.

Skills

Organizational skills

Attention to detail

Ability to follow protocols

Ability to work independently

Ability to collaborate

Education

Baccalaureate degree in biological or related scientific discipline

Master's degree or 3+ years of research experience

Job description

Martens Lab - Junior or Assistant Specialist

Application Window: Open Date February 6, 2026 – Final Date August 6, 2027. (Open until the final date unless the position is filled.)

Position

The Junior or Assistant Specialist will support ongoing research in mammalian tissue biology and disease mechanisms within the Martens Lab at UCSF. Responsibilities include assisting with experimental workflows in animal and cell-based systems, supporting molecular and cellular biology techniques under supervision, and participating in tissue processing and sample preparation. The role also involves maintaining day‑to‑day laboratory operations, including ordering reagents, managing inventory, and maintaining accurate laboratory documentation and records. With experience, the position may expand to experimental design, data analysis, and preparation of research results for presentation or publication.

Required Qualifications

• Baccalaureate degree (or equivalent) in a biological or related scientific discipline, or at least four years of relevant research experience for Junior rank.
• Master's degree (or equivalent) or a baccalaureate degree with three or more years of research experience for Assistant rank.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to follow established research protocols and maintain accurate records.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a research environment.
• Interest in long‑term research training prior to graduate or PhD studies.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience in a laboratory research setting.
• Familiarity with basic molecular or cell biology techniques.
• Experience with tissue processing, cell culture, or animal research (preferred but not required).
• Strong motivation to pursue advanced training or graduate education in biomedical research.

Salary & Compensation

Salary range: $55,000–$70,700. See Table 24B for official details.

Application Requirements

• Cover Letter
• Curriculum Vitae (must list current and/or pending qualifications)
• Statement of Research (Optional)

References: Two required (contact information only).

Location

San Francisco, CA

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 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: Affordative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment