In the Staff Research Associate I/II (SRA I/II) position, you will be an integral member of the Kampmann lab at the UCSF Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases (IND). The lab develops innovative technologies to understand cellular and molecular mechanisms of human diseases and discover new therapeutic strategies, focusing on neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. We utilize a CRISPR-based functional genomics platform for genetic screens in human iPSC-based disease models. Our interdisciplinary team includes postdocs, graduate students, and staff research associates, fostering a culture of curiosity, collaboration, support, diversity, and fun. Learn more at kampmannlab.ucsf.edu.
You will work as part of a research team developing CRISPR/Cas9-based approaches to understand disease mechanisms and identify potential therapies. The role requires teamwork, organization, problem-solving, and strong communication skills, with opportunities for independent research and bioinformatics analysis. Past staff research associates have contributed to high-impact publications.
Responsibilities include experiments with mammalian cell cultures (including iPSCs and derived neurons/glia), molecular biology techniques (DNA vector construction, qPCR), preparing samples for sequencing, flow cytometry, biochemistry, functional assays, imaging, statistical analysis, and other duties. There may be some animal husbandry involving murine disease models. Lab management tasks (up to 30%) include cleaning, preparing buffers, aliquoting media, bacterial plating, and inventory checks.
The salary range is $28.04 - $45.09 hourly, with placement dependent on experience and internal equity, subject to UCSF policies and union rules. The IND at UCSF combines basic science and clinical research to develop therapeutics for neurodegenerative diseases, led by Nobel Laureate Stanley B. Prusiner, MD.
**Required Qualifications:**
- BA/BS in molecular/cell biology or related field, or equivalent experience
- Knowledge of basic techniques or methods used in the position
- Working knowledge of MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Organized, detail-oriented, with good record-keeping
- Excellent communication and report-writing skills
**SRA II Additional Requirement:**
- One or more years of relevant work experience post-degree or equivalent
**Preferred Qualifications:**
- Experience with brain cell culture (iPSC or primary cells)
- Molecular biology skills (PCR, cloning)
- Biochemistry skills (Western blot, enzymatic assays)
- Knowledge of flow cytometry, microscopy, electrophysiology
- Bioinformatics experience (sequencing or imaging analysis)
- Proficiency in sterile cell culture techniques
- Animal husbandry and working with murine models
**About UCSF:**
UCSF is a leading health sciences university committed to research, education, and patient care, with five Nobel laureates. We value diversity, professionalism, respect, integrity, and excellence, aligning with our PRIDE values. We are dedicated to equity and fostering a welcoming, supportive community. More information is available at diversity.ucsf.edu.
Join us to contribute to advancing healthcare worldwide.
The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer, considering all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, veteran status, or other protected categories.
**Organization Details:**
Campus, Job Code: 009617 SRA 2 NEX, Job Category: Research and Scientific, Bargaining Unit: UPTE-RX.