"Den Besten Lab - Junior Specialist"

The Den Besten Laboratory is seeking a Junior Specialist to join our team and contribute to a project focused on investigating the effects of fluoride on secretory and maturation ameloblasts using in vitro and in vivo models. This project focuses on establishing mouse and human functional ameloblast cell lines and chronic dental fluorosis mouse models to analyze fluoride's impact on ameloblast differentiation, ER stress response, and mitochondrial function.

The selected candidate will be expected to analyze the relevant literature, demonstrate creativity in developing new ideas, and contribute to manuscript writing. Additionally, the Junior Specialist will be responsible for general lab duties and maintaining a positive presence within the lab.

Responsibilities

• Research Contributions: Perform experiments involving mouse colony maintenance, mouse handling, histology, immunostaining, cell culture, and DNA/RNA/protein/ATP biochemistry assays, RNA-seq analysis.
• Data Analysis: Analyze experimental results and relevant literature to support hypothesis-driven research.
• Innovation: Demonstrate creativity in developing new research ideas and approaches.
• Manuscript Preparation: Contribute to writing and preparing manuscripts for publication.
• Lab Duties: Perform general laboratory tasks, including maintaining equipment, and ensuring a clean and organized lab environment.
• Team Collaboration: Maintain a positive and collaborative presence within the research team.

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor's degree (or equivalent degree) in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related field or at least four years of research experience.
• Experience with basic laboratory techniques, including mouse colony maintenance, mouse handling, histology, immunostaining, cell culture, DNA analysis, RNA purification/qPCR/RNA-seq analysis, mitochondrial activity biochemistry assays.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and maintaining a detailed, organized, prompt, and accurate laboratory notebook.
• Willingness and ability to learn new methods and skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.
• Ability to prioritize tasks, coordinate work tasks with others, and meet multiple deadlines.

Preferred:

• Experience with mouse handling and mouse tissue collection.
• Familiarity with the biology of the tooth enamel organ.
• Familiarity with systems used to immortalize mammalian primary epithelial cells.
• Strong analytical skills and experience with literature reviews.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for manuscript preparation.

See Table 24B for the salary range for this position. A reasonable estimate for this position is $55,000-$58,600. We are seeking a 12-month commitment.

Please apply online at https://aprecruit.ucsf.edu/JPF05737 with a cover letter, CV, statement of research, and contact information for two references.