Project Scientist Position

David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

The David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA seeks a PhD scientist to design and execute experiments in molecular biology, including RNA sequencing of Drosophila tissue and cloning constructs for new genetic lines.

The appointee will supervise students, maintain records, and contribute to data analysis while working independently on projects related to neuronal signaling and transporter regulation. Salary aligned with UCLA standards.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree in molecular biology or related field.
• Experience with RNA sequence analysis and molecular cloning is highly desirable.
• Background in Drosophila neurobiology is highly desirable.
• Authorship on prior publications is required.

Responsibilities

• Designing and executing experiments and protocols, including RNA sequencing analysis of tissue from Drosophila.
• Supervising and training graduate and undergraduate students in lab techniques and record-keeping.

Skills

RNA sequencing analysis

Molecular cloning

Drosophila neurobiology

Supervising students

Data analysis

Education

PhD in molecular biology or related field

Job description

Specifically, the appointee will be responsible for:

• Designing and contributing to the development and execution of experiments and protocols, including the following. Performing RNA sequencing analysis of tissue derived from Drosophila. Performing molecular cloning experiments to generate new constructs for injection in flies and the generation of new genetic lines. Analyze Drosophila mutants and transgenes using molecular, biochemical and imaging techniques including immunolabeling, confocal microscopy, western blots, density gradient centrifugation and 2 photon microscopy. Conduct behavioral experiments on flies using equipment for digital recordings.
• Supervising and training graduate and undergraduate students in appropriate laboratory techniques and record-keeping to accurately complete research procedures in the laboratory.
• Maintaining accurate records of procedures and data collected. Computing results for a variety of research procedures, tests, and techniques including the analysis of RNA sequencing data.
• Helping to maintain genetically modified flies and contributing to compliance of the laboratory environment with UCLA mandates.
• Following applicable safety policies/procedures. Maintain security/safety of personnel; ensure researchers are complying with safety policies/procedures.
• Working independently to develop new projects related to neuronal signaling, the function and regulation of neurotransmitter transporters and the response to psychotropic drugs. This will include designing experiments, collecting pilot data, and identifying funding mechanisms.
• Attending research group meetings and preparing manuscripts, grant applications and reports. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to write and publish research findings, attend scientific meetings, and to grow professionally.

A Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree in molecular biology or a related field is required. Prior experience with RNA sequence analysis and molecular cloning is highly desirable. A background in Drosophila neurobiology is also highly desirable. Authorship on prior publications is required.

The successful candidate should be fully competent in Word, Excel, PowerPoint and statistical software.

The candidate must demonstrate an interest to learn new techniques and concepts, be well
organized, detail oriented and self-motivated. The ability to work both independently and
with individuals of various educational and disciplinary backgrounds is essential.

Salary will be consistent with the UCLA Project Scientist Series.

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A Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree in molecular biology or a related field