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Junior or Assistant Specialist- Taunton Lab

The Taunton lab (https://tauntonlab.ucsf.edu/) at the Mission Bay campus at UCSF is looking to appoint a Junior or Assistant Specialist to conduct research related to covalent drug discovery, chemoproteomics, and small-molecule modulators of proteostasis (protein biogenesis and degradation). The position will involve working closely with a postdoctoral scholar and a senior graduate student on an independent research project, as well as some general laboratory support. The ongoing projects in the lab are focused on (1) structural, biochemical, and biological characterization of probes that covalently modify novel therapeautic targets, and (2) interrogating the mechanisms by which small-molecule proteostasis modulators affect cancer and immune cells. All of the projects are highly multidisciplinary and involve aspects of new technology development, early drug discovery, and addressing fundamental questions in chemical/cellular biology. The candidate will have the opportunity to publish their cutting-edge research in high-impact scientific journals.

Job Responsibilities: Perform experiments and data analysis under direct supervision with training provided. Primary tasks will include performing experiments utilizing molecular cloning, recombinant protein expression and purification, biochemical assays including intact-protein mass spectrometry, and preparation of proteomic samples for analysis by mass spectrometry. Additional duties will include participation in basic lab support activities, organization, as well as actively participating in group meetings.

Required Qualifications: To be met at time of hire

• Junior Specialist- B.A. or B.S. degree in biology, biochemistry, chemical biology, biophysics, molecular biology, or a related field.
• Assistant Specialist- A master’s degree or a bachelor’s degree with 3 or more years of research experience.
• Previous independent laboratory experience outside of required courses.
• Must be highly motivated, clearly demonstrate a passion for scientific research, and must exhibit a strong commitment to perform scientific research with a desire to pursue a Ph.D. in the biological sciences.
• Must be an effective communicator, detail-oriented and organized, able to take the initiative to address research issues, and work independently, and collaborate well with other members of the lab.
• All requirements must be met by the start date.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with molecular cloning and recombinant protein expression and purification.
• Experience with mammalian cell culture.
• Experience with computational analysis of large datasets (e.g., RNAseq, proteomics).
• Basic organic chemistry synthesis skills.
• Experience with protein structure-based design of small-molecule ligands.
• A two-year commitment is highly preferred.

Applicants will be considered until the position is filled. Please apply online at https://aprecruit.ucsf.edu/JPF04532, and submit a curriculum vitae, cover letter, and provide a minimum of two names and email addresses of references from academic professionals supporting your research capability.

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. Screening of applicants will begin immediately and will continue as needed throughout the recruitment period. Salary and rank will be commensurate with the applicants experience and training.

See Table 24B for the salary range for this position. A reasonable estimate for this position is $49,000-$63,000.

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.