"Specialists (Griffin Lab)"

University of California Irvine
Specialists (Griffin Lab)

Position overview

Salary range: $55,000 - $70,700

Application Window
Open date: December 19, 2025
Next review date: Thursday, Jan 15, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)
Apply by this date to ensure full consideration by the committee.
Final date: Friday, Jul 31, 2026 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.

Position description

The Griffin lab is recruiting enthusiastic and highly motivated candidates with a background in chemical, biological, or biomedical sciences to join our interdisciplinary research team in the heart of Orange County in sunny southern California.

This opportunity is well suited for candidates who are seeking hands-on research experience with the potential to co-author scientific manuscripts to strengthen their future applications for Ph.D., M.D., or other related post-secondary degree programs. The position is for an initial one-year appointment and is renewable based on performance and funding availability.

Learn more about our laboratory and work at www.mgriffinlab.com.

Key responsibilities:
You will be trained to independently conduct the following tasks:

1. Culture multiple bacteria from gut microbiota under anoxic conditions,
2. Profile microbial metabolites for immune activation using cell-based assays,
3. Prepare DNA constructs for protein expression and genomic engineering,
4. Express, purify, and characterize microbiota enzymes,
5. Generate genomic mutants of microbial isolates to control glycan biosynthesis,
6. Maintain accurate and complete notebook experimental records and inventory,
7. Complete assigned responsibilities for lab upkeep and maintenance, and
8. Collaborate with other team members on projects at the interface of microbiota metabolism and host immunity.

Qualifications

Basic qualifications (required at time of application)

Applicants are being sought from candidates with B.S. and/or B.A. (or equivalent) in chemistry, biology, biochemistry, biomedical sciences, or related fields.

All candidates must possess the following attributes to be considered:

1. Interest or experience in chemical biology, immunology, or microbiology,
2. Ability to diligently follow experimental protocols,
3. Ability to document experiments accurately and reliably,
4. Ability to write and communicate effectively,
5. Ability to act as a team player who actively seeks collaborative opportunities, and
6. Prior hands-on laboratory experience for at least one year.

Application Requirements

Document requirements

• Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.
• Cover Letter - Cover letter should describe interests, future career plans and contact information for three references.

Reference requirements

• 3 required (contact information only)

About UC Irvine

The University of California, Irvine is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to nondiscrimination.

Job location
Irvine, CA