Laird Lab Specialist: UCSF/IVF, Small RNA Biology, and Reproductive Epigenetics

Job Description

The Laird Lab at the Eli and Edythe Broad Center for Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research and the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences at UCSF's Parnassus Heights Campus is seeking to hire a Research Specialist with expertise in IVF, reproductive biology, small RNA biology, and preclinical mouse models. The Specialist will join a highly collaborative team focused on understanding how small RNAs and epigenetic mechanisms regulate fertility, embryogenesis, and reproductive aging. We welcome applications from PhD-trained scientists with postdoctoral experience and extensive hands-on expertise in molecular biology, reproductive technologies, sequencing approaches, and animal studies.

Job Responsibilities

• Lead and execute independent and collaborative research projects focused on small RNAs, reproductive biology, and embryonic development.
• Perform and optimize assisted reproductive technologies including IVF, embryo collection, embryo culture, sperm analyses, and related mouse reproductive procedures.
• Design and execute experiments involving small RNA sequencing, NGS library preparation, transcriptomics, and molecular analyses.
• Generate, maintain, and phenotype mouse models relevant to reproductive biology.
• Conduct molecular and cellular biology experiments including CRISPR-based gene editing, qPCR, Western blotting, RNA/protein pull-downs, and primary cell culture.
• Analyze sequencing and experimental datasets and present findings during lab meetings, conferences, and collaborative discussions.
• Develop and refine experimental protocols, maintain detailed records, and contribute to manuscript preparation and grant-related activities.
• Mentor and train students, trainees, and junior staff in laboratory techniques and best research practices.
• Assist with laboratory operations including ordering, equipment maintenance, regulatory compliance, IACUC documentation, and coordination of collaborative projects.

Required Qualifications

• PhD in Molecular Biology, Reproductive Biology, Genetics, Developmental Biology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of postdoctoral or equivalent advanced research experience.
• Extensive hands-on experience with IVF, mouse reproductive biology (male and female), embryo manipulation, and/or gamete biology.
• Strong expertise in small RNA biology, reproductive biology, RNA sequencing technologies, and molecular biology workflows, combined with the independence, leadership, and collaborative mindset needed to contribute to a fast-paced and innovative research environment.
• Experience working with in vivo mouse models and animal procedures including injections, tissue collection, and surgical techniques.
• Technical expertise in microscopy.
• Demonstrated ability to independently design, execute, troubleshoot, and interpret complex experiments.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and scientific writing skills.
• Strong record of peer-reviewed publications and collaborative research contributions.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with single-cell or low-input sequencing technologies.
• Familiarity with bioinformatics tools and analysis pipelines for sequencing data.
• Prior experience collaborating across academic and/or industry partnerships.
• Experience mentoring trainees and coordinating multi-project research workflows.
• Demonstrated expertise in reproductive epigenetics and intergenerational inheritance studies.
• Candidates with demonstrated accomplishments in IVF, sperm RNA biology, transgenic mouse studies, and sequencing-based approaches are especially encouraged to apply.