What are the responsibilities and job description for the Goodarzi Lab - Junior Specialist position at University of California - San Francisco?
Open date: April 27, 2026
Next review date: Tuesday, May 12, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)
Apply by this date to ensure full consideration by the committee.
Final date: Wednesday, Oct 27, 2027 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.
Goodarzi Lab - Junior Specialist
Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics
UC San Francisco
We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Junior Specialist to support research in RNA-based therapeutics and cancer biology. The candidate will work closely with postdoctoral fellows and other lab members to investigate novel approaches in RNA delivery, stability, and expression in the context of cancer models.
Key responsibilities include:
- Conducting molecular biology experiments such as PCR, in vitro transcription (IVT), cloning, and Western blotting
- Performing luciferase-based reporter assays and qPCR to assess RNA activity
- Maintaining mammalian cell cultures and executing in vitro RNA transfection experiments using LNPs (lipid nano particles)
- Preparing DNA libraries for next-generation sequencing
- Performing flow cytometry and immunostaining-based assays
- Assisting in animal studies including tumor cell injections (e.g., subcutaneous, intravenous), in vivo RNA delivery, and tissue harvesting
- Collecting, analyzing, and presenting experimental data
- Contributing to routine lab maintenance and reagent preparation
This position offers opportunities for scientific growth, including participation in collaborative research, lab meetings, and publications.
Required Qualifications:
- Must have (or be in process of obtaining) a baccalaureate degree (or equivalent degree) in molecular biology, biochemistry, cell biology, cancer biology, bioengineering, or a related field or at least four years of relevant research experience to be appointed at the Junior rank
- Willingness to work with mice
- Strong organizational skills and the ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Excellent written and oral communications skills
Preferred Qualifications:
- Hands-on experience with in vivo tumor models, including tumor cell injections, tissue harvesting, and LNP/RNA delivery in mice
- Experience with PCR, Cell culture, qPCR and in vitro transcription (IVT), luciferase assays, and flow cytometry
- Familiarity with RNA biology, gene expression assays, and Western blotting
- Proficiency in data analysis and visualization using tools such as GraphPad Prism, FlowJo, ImageJ, or similar software
- Prior experience working in an academic or biotech research lab
See Table 24B for the salary range for this position. A reasonable estimate for this position is $55,000-$58,600.
Please click here to apply with a cover letter, CV, and contact information for two references. Applicant materials must list current and/or pending qualifications upon submission. The selected candidate must meet all of the qualifications at the time of appointment.
Cover Letter
Curriculum Vitae - CV must clearly list current and/or pending qualifications (e.g. board eligibility/certification, medical licensure, etc.).
Statement of Research (Optional)
- 2 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
Equal Employment Opportunity: The University of California San Francisco 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, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.
Salary : $55,000 - $58,600