The Pollen Lab at UCSF is seeking a highly motivated Junior Specialist to join our research team. The successful candidate will support ongoing research using induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived models to study human brain development and evolution. Our work spans 2D and 3D culture systems, including neuronal differentiation, neural circuit assembly, and comparative studies across human and great ape cell lines.
You will be expected to engage in specialized research supporting collaborative projects across the lab. We are looking for candidates who are genuinely curious, self-directed, and take satisfaction in doing careful, reliable work. The ideal candidate is comfortable with both routine tasks and troubleshooting, communicates proactively, and contributes positively to a collaborative lab environment.
Applicants with hands-on experience in iPSC culture, differentiation, and characterization techniques are strongly encouraged to apply, as are those with proficiency in molecular biology techniques including PCR, immunofluorescence, and flow cytometry. Familiarity with single-cell genomics sample preparation or gene editing tools (CRISPR/Cas9) is a plus but not required. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds and strive to maintain an inclusive research environment.
Key Responsibilities * Culture and maintain iPSC lines, including routine passaging, quality control, and cryopreservation * Support differentiation of iPSCs into neural cell types using 2D and 3D culture systems * Prepare samples for single-cell genomics workflows (10x Genomics, library preparation) * Perform molecular biology techniques including immunofluorescence, flow cytometry, and PCR * Prepare reagents, aliquot stocks, and maintain organized inventories * Keep lab spaces stocked and organized, support equipment maintenance and general lab operations * Maintain detailed and accurate records of all experiments and protocols * Collect and organize experimental data; assist with data entry and quality control * Collaborate with postdocs and graduate students to support their experimental workflows
Appointees in the Specialist series will be expected to engage in specialized research, professional activities and do not have teaching responsibilities. Specialists are expected to use their professional expertise to make scientific and scholarly contributions and may participate in University and Public Service.
Required Qualifications: * A bachelor's degree (or equivalent degree) or at least four years of research experience. * Applicants' materials must list current and/or pending qualifications upon submission.
Preferred Qualifications: * Familiarity with single-cell genomics sample preparation or gene editing tools (CRISPR/Cas9) * Hands-on experience in iPSC culture, differentiation, and characterization techniques * Proficiency in molecular biology techniques including PCR, immunofluorescence, and flow cytometry
Applicants must apply online with a CV, cover letter, and contact information for three references. Applicants' materials must list current and/or pending qualifications upon submission. Applicants must have qualifications by time of hire.
See Table 24B for the salary range for this position. A reasonable estimate for this position is $55,000 - $58,600.
Document requirements
Curriculum Vitae - CV must clearly list current and/or pending qualifications (e.g. board eligibility/certification, medical licensure, etc.).
Cover Letter
Reference requirements
3 required (contact information only)
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.
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: Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment
The University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) is a leading university dedicated to promoting health worldwide through advanced biomedical research, graduate-level education in the life sciences and health professions, and high-quality patient care. It is the only UC campus in the 10-campus system dedicated exclusively to the health sciences.
