Project Scientist-Biological Chemistry

University of California - Los Angeles (UCLA); California, Los Angeles (MO, CA); On-site; USD 74,000 - 195,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading university seeks a researcher for a position in neuroscience, focusing on mechanisms regulating brain wiring using Drosophila. The ideal candidate will have a Ph.D. and extensive experience in genetics and molecular biology techniques, contributing to innovative research projects in a collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• At least 3 years of postdoctoral experience with a strong publication record.
• Expertise in Drosophila genetics.
• Experience in analysis of EM connectomics and RNA seq.

Responsibilities

• Design and conduct experiments to dissect mechanisms of neural circuit development.
• Lead projects focused on understanding cell recognition molecules in Drosophila.
• Collaborate with lab members and external collaborators.

Skills

Organizational skills

Problem-solving skills

Communication skills

Education

Ph.D. in Neuroscience or Genetics

Ph.D. in Biological Chemistry or related fields

Tools

RNA-seq

ATAC-seq

CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing

Advanced imaging

Job description

Position overview

Salary range:
$74,100-$195,000/yr

Application Window

Open date: May 22, 2025

Next review date: Friday, Jun 20, 2025 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)

Apply by this date to ensure full consideration by the committee.

Final date: Sunday, Jun 22, 2025 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

This position is intended for detailed analysis of uncovering mechanisms regulating brain wiring. The Zipursky lab uses cutting-edge connectomics, transcriptomics, genetics and imaging to explore these mechanisms in the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster.

The preferred qualifications for this position are as follows:

• Ph.D. in Neuroscience or Genetics.


• At least 3 years of postdoctoral experience with a strong publication and collaborative record.


• Expertise in Drosophila genetics.


• Proficiency in molecular biology techniques, including RNA-seq, ATAC-seq, CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing, and advanced imaging.


• Experience in analysis of EM connectomics and RNA seq


• Strong organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills.


• Demonstrated ability to lead independent projects and work collaboratively within a team

Job duties and responsibilities

1. Design and conduct experiments to dissect mechanisms of neural circuit development.


2. Lead and execute projects focused on the understanding of different classes of cell recognition molecules in wiring in the Drosophila visual system.


3. Use state-of-the-art transcriptomics and and imaging techniques to characterize development of neuron connections.


4. Perform the analyses and interpretation of phenotypes arising from mutations in genes regulating brain development.


5. Develop and optimize protocols for visual synaptic connections at the single cell level using expansion microscopy.


6. Collaborate with other lab members and external collaborators to integrate multi-disciplinary approaches to studying neural circuit development in Drosophila..


7. Contribute to the preparation of research manuscripts for publication

Qualifications

Basic qualifications

Ph.D. in Biological Chemistry or related fields

Application Requirements

Document requirements

• Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.

  
  

• Cover Letter (Optional)

  
  

• Reference check authorization release form - Complete and upload the reference check authorization release form

  
  

Reference requirements

• 2-4 required (contact information only)

Please provide contact information for 2 references.

Apply link:
https://recruit.apo.ucla.edu/JPF10353

Help contact: [e-mail]

About UCLA

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.

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, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.

• "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, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer.


• 
  UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy


• 
  UC Anti-Discrimination Policy for Employees, Students and Third Parties


• APM - 035: Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment

Job location

Los Angeles, CA