"Sil Lab - Junior/Assistant"

Sil Lab - Junior/Assistant

SCHOOL OF MEDICINE - Microbiology and Immunology

The Sil lab is seeking a highly-motivated and detail-oriented Junior/Assistant Specialist to join our group and support research in the basic biology of fungal pathogens. The candidate will work closely with postdoctoral fellows and other lab members to investigate novel biology in fungal development. We take a number of molecular approaches, including genetics and genomics, with a focus on RNA biology. The candidate will be expected to generate genetic tools and conduct microbiology and molecular biology techniques, including fungal culturing, cloning, protein purification, and biochemical assays. An exceptional candidate will lead their own independent project, develop new ideas, be familiar with the literature, and participate in procurement of funds, where appropriate. Additionally, the specialist will be expected to assist with managing day-to-day lab operations, and perform general lab duties and be a positive lab citizen.

Key responsibilities include:

• Conducting molecular and cell biology experiments, such as PCR, qPCR, in vitro transcription, cloning, gel electrophoresis, immunoprecipitations, Northern and Western blotting
• Aseptically culturing fungal cell lines and performing genetic manipulations using CRISPR-Cas9
• Preparing RNA and DNA libraries for next-generation sequencing
• Microscopic analysis of fungal cells
• Collecting, analyzing, and presenting experimental data

Required Qualifications:

• Excellent organizational and interpersonal communication skills (verbal and written)
• Willingness and ability to learn new methods and skills for changing research priorities.
• Ability to work independently and as a member of a research team.
• Ability to prioritize tasks, coordinate work tasks with others, and meet multiple deadlines.
• Must have (or be in process of obtaining) a bachelor's degree (or equivalent degree) or four years of research experience to be appointed at the Junior rank.
• Must have (or be in process of obtaining) a master's degree (or equivalent degree) or a bachelor's degree with three or more years of research experience to be appointed at the Assistant rank.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience with handling pathogenic microbes, aseptic techniques
• Prior experience with BSL2/BSL3 biocontainment
• Prior experience in the design and assembly of DNA constructs
• Prior experience in molecular genetics and biology (i.e. gene knockouts, epitope tagging, immunoprecipitation, protein-protein interactions)
• Prior experience with RNAseq and library prepration
• Familiarity with RNA biology, gene expression assays, Western blotting
• Prior experience working in a research lab with fungi

We are seeking at least a 2-year commitment. Depending on performance and workload, opportunities for independent research, mentorship of other trainees, and scientific writing will be available.

Applicants must meet requirements by the time of appointment.

Please apply online at https://aprecruit.ucsf.edu/JPF05611

Document requirements

• Curriculum Vitae - CV must clearly list current and/or pending qualifications (e.g. board eligibility/certification, medical licensure, etc.).
• Cover Letter (Optional)
• Statement of Research (Optional)
• Statement of Teaching (Optional)

Reference requirements

• 2 required (contact information only)