Skip to main content

Feng Lab - Junior or Assistant Research Specialist (Molecular and Cell Biology)

We are no longer accepting applications for this recruitment. Browse open recruitments

Position description

Junior or Assistant Research Specialist (Molecular and Cell Biology) – Feng Lab
University of California, San Francisco
Department of Radiation Oncology

The Feng Laboratory at the University of California, San Francisco is seeking to recruit an outstanding candidate to fill a Junior or Assistant Specialist position.

Research in the Feng Lab focuses on (1) identifying molecular drivers of prostate cancer pathogenesis, (2) understanding the mechanisms that contribute to disease progression and metastasis, and (3) developing novel therapeutic strategies. Our lab utilizes cancer genomics, cell biology, CRISPR and small molecule screens, and mouse modeling approaches to answer fundamental questions underlying prostate cancer biology, with the goal of translating discoveries from the lab into the clinic. We work collaboratively with basic scientists, computational biologists, pathologists, and oncologists at the UCSF Helen Diller Cancer Center. Please refer to fenglaboratory.com for additional details.

The role of the Junior or Assistant Specialist is to both assist with ongoing experiments and, depending on the candidate’s skill level, conduct independent research under the guidance of Dr. Feng and other members of the Feng Lab. The Specialist will learn and utilize a variety of research techniques and have the opportunity to be a co-author on publications.

Job responsibilities include but are not limited to:
• Performing a range of molecular biology techniques, including molecular cloning, DNA and
• RNA isolation, and protein expression analysis.
• Performing flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry experiments.
• Performing knock-down experiments using shRNA lentiviral infection and CRISPR-based techniques.
• Performing gene transfer studies using lentiviral infection of human cell cultures.
• Culturing primary human organoids and established human cancer cell lines.
• Assisting with mouse colony management, including breeding, weaning, tagging, and PCR genotyping.
• Conducting xenograft studies and pharmacologic experiments in mice.
• Assisting with lab maintenance duties.

Required qualifications:
• Applicants need to be self-motivated, fast learners, critical thinkers, and enthusiastic about science and medicine.
• Applicants need to work well as part of a team and have outstanding written and oral communication skills.
• Specialists appointed at the Junior rank must possess a baccalaureate degree (or equivalent degree) or 4 years of relevant research experience.
• Specialists appointed at the Assistant rank must possess a master’s degree (or equivalent degree) or at least 5 years of experience in the relevant specialization.

Preferred qualifications:
• Prior independent research experience in molecular and cellular biology or tumor immunology.
• Experience with flow cytometry, mass cytometry (CyTOF), and/or immunohistochemistry.
• Experience with molecular biology and biochemistry techniques, cell culture, CRISPR/Cas9, qPCR, confocal microscopy, and/or managing a mouse colony.
• Preference for the Junior or Assistant Specialist position may be given to applicants interested in pursuing a biomedical sciences PhD or MD/PhD.

Salary and appointment will be commensurate with the applicant's experience and training. This position is available immediately.

UC San Francisco seeks candidates whose experience, teaching, research, or community service has prepared them to contribute to our commitment to diversity and excellence. The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status.

Please apply online at https://aprecruit.ucsf.edu/JPF03403. Applicants’ materials must list current and/or pending qualifications upon submission.

Application Requirements

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

  • Cover Letter (Optional)

  • Statement of Research (Optional)

  • Statement of Teaching (Optional)

  • Statement of Contributions to Diversity (Optional)

  • Misc / Additional (Optional)

Reference requirements
  • 3-5 required (contact information only)

About UC San Francisco

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.

UC San Francisco seeks candidates whose experience, teaching, research, or community service has prepared them to contribute to our commitment to diversity and excellence. The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status.

Job location

San Francisco, CA