What are the responsibilities and job description for the Specialists (Griffin Lab) position at University of California - Irvine?
Open date: December 19, 2025
Most recent review date: Sunday, Mar 15, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)
Applications received after this date will be reviewed by the search committee if the position has not yet been filled.
Final date: Friday, Jul 31, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)
Applications will continue to be accepted until this date, but those received after the review date will only be considered if the position has not yet been filled.
The Griffin lab is recruiting enthusiastic and highly motivated candidates with a background in chemical, biological, or biomedical sciences to join our interdisciplinary research team in the heart of Orange County in sunny southern California.
This opportunity is well suited for candidates who are seeking hands-on research experience with the potential to co-author scientific manuscripts to strengthen their future applications for Ph.D., M.D., or other related post-secondary degree programs. The position is for an initial one-year appointment and is renewable based on performance and funding availability.
Learn more about our laboratory and work at www.mgriffinlab.com.
Key responsibilities:
You will be trained to independently conduct the following tasks:
- Culture multiple bacteria from gut microbiota under anoxic conditions,
- Profile microbial metabolites for immune activation using cell-based assays,
- Prepare DNA constructs for protein expression and genomic engineering,
- Express, purify, and characterize microbiota enzymes,
- Generate genomic mutants of microbial isolates to control glycan biosynthesis,
- Maintain accurate and complete notebook experimental records and inventory,
- Complete assigned responsibilities for lab upkeep and maintenance, and
- Collaborate with other team members on projects at the interface of microbiota metabolism and host immunity.
Applicants are being sought from candidates with B.S. and/or B.A. (or equivalent) in chemistry, biology, biochemistry, biomedical sciences, or related fields.
All candidates must possess the following attributes to be considered:
- Interest or experience in chemical biology, immunology, or microbiology,
- Ability to diligently follow experimental protocols,
- Ability to document experiments accurately and reliably,
- Ability to write and communicate effectively,
- Ability to act as a team player who actively seeks collaborative opportunities, and
- Prior hands-on laboratory experience for at least one year.
Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.
Cover Letter - Cover letter should describe interests, future career plans and contact information for three references.
- 3 required (contact information only)
The University of California, Irvine 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 categories covered by the UC anti-discrimination policy.
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 for Employees, Students and Third Parties
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APM - 035: Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment.
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, Irvine is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer advancing inclusive excellence. 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 categories covered by the UC nondiscrimination policy.
Salary : $55,000 - $70,700