Project Scientist Position

University of California - Los Angeles (UCLA); Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 79,000 - 106,000; Full time

Job summary

University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) in Los Angeles, CA seeks a junior to mid-level Project Scientist to conduct experiments using Drosophila to study neuronal signaling and transporter function. The successful candidate will oversee students and junior staff, drive projects from conception to publication, and contribute to manuscripts and grant applications.

Applicants should have a Ph.D. in molecular biology or related field, experience with RNA sequencing and molecular cloning, and a

Qualifications

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

Responsibilities

• Design and execute experiments and protocols, including RNA sequencing analysis and molecular cloning to generate new constructs.
• Supervise and train graduate and undergraduate students and maintain accurate records.
• Analyze RNA sequencing data and compute results for research procedures.
• Maintain genetically modified flies and ensure laboratory safety and compliance.
• Develop new projects in neuronal signaling and neurotransmitter transporter regulation, including pilot data collection.
• Attend meetings, prepare manuscripts and grant applications, and contribute to publications.

Skills

RNA sequencing analysis

Molecular cloning

Drosophila neurobiology

Supervision

Education

Ph.D. in molecular biology or related field

Tools

Statistical software

Word/Excel/PowerPoint

Job description

Position overview

Salary range: 79100-106100

Application Window

Open date: August 31, 2026

Next review date: Wednesday, Sep 30, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)

Final date: Wednesday, Sep 30, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)

Position description

A Project Scientist (junior to mid -level) is sought to conduct experiments using Drosophila to study neuronal signaling, the function and regulation of neurotransmitter transporters and the response to psychotropic drugs. The successful candidate will be responsible, in conjunction with the PI and collaborators, for taking projects from conception through execution to publication, and will be expected to supervise students and junior technical staff throughout this process.

• 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.

Pay Scale

For additional information about the position, contact David Krantz, M.D., Ph.D. at [e-mail].

Cultural North Star. The shared values of the DGSOM are expressed in the Cultural North Star, which was developed by members of our community and affirms our unswerving commitment to doing what's right, making things better, and being kind. These are the standards to which we hold ourselves, and one another. Please read more about this important DGSOM program at Medical School | Cultural North Star | UCLA Medical School

Qualifications

Basic qualifications

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

Preferred qualifications

Prior experience with RNA sequence analysis and molecular cloning is highly desirable.

Application Requirements

Document requirements

• Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.
• Cover Letter (Optional)
• Statement of Research (Optional)
• Reference check authorization release form - Complete and upload the reference check authorization release form
• UCLA Mission Statement - As the nation's premier public research university, UC's mission is the creation, dissemination, preservation and application of knowledge for the betterment of our global society. We have a particular responsibility to the people of California which we express in the excellence of the education we provide, the impact of the research we do, the comprehensive, life-saving medical services we provide, and the public service mission we are devoted to. The University of California promotes the social mobility of its students, equips them with the tools and experience that furthers their ambitions, and regards their accomplishments across the life span as evidence of the profoundly positive impact of higher education. The UCLA campus has expressed these goals in its strategic plan as follows: Deepen our engagement with Los Angeles Expand our reach as a global university Enhance our research and creative activities Elevate how we teach Become a more effective institution.
• Statement of Teaching (Optional)

Reference requirements

• 3-5 required (contact information only)

Applicants are requested to provide contact information for 3 potential references in their UC Recruit application. Upon selection as a potential candidate(s), identified references will be contacted for letters. Candidates may be contacted to provide alternate references.

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.

• "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: Affluent Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment

Job location

Los Angeles, CA