Assistant​/Associate Project Scientist - Tumor-Host Interactions - Molecular and Cell Biology

Position overview

Salary range: The UC academic salary scales set the minimum pay determined by rank and step  current full-time base salary range for this position is $79,400 - $119,500.

Percent time: 100%

Anticipated start: Fall 2026

Position duration: The initial appointment is for one year with the possibility of renewal based on performance and funding availability.

The Department of Molecular and Cell Biology at the University of California, Berkeley, seeks applications for an Assistant or Associate Project Scientist in the Bilder Lab, in the area of interorgan signaling in the context of tumor-host phenomena.

The Bilder lab examines the cellular and molecular bases of tumor-host interactions using genetically tractable Drosophila carcinoma models. Areas of particular interest to us are interorgan signaling mechanisms, the tumor‑immune interface, and wound healing mechanisms co‑opted by cancer cells.

This project entails dissection of systemic effects of tumor-host communication in a Drosophila ovarian carcinoma model. This position includes development and characterization of the Drosophila ovarian carcinoma model and the para neoplastic phenomena that arise in it. Additionally, the position includes study of the molecular and cellular mechanisms that underlie these phenomena using genetic screening, advanced imaging, and physiological assays. At its culmination, the position will draft an article manuscript(s) for submission to journals, completing revisions as necessary.

• Design and execution of experiments
• Management of multiple independent research projects under the guidance of the supervisor
• Data analysis, management, and communication in weekly lab meetings and at conferences
• Preparation of manuscripts
• Contribute to regular laboratory maintenance
• Assist in training students and other lab members in mastered laboratory techniques

Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Basic qualifications (required at time of application)

Ph.D. or equivalent international degree.

Additional qualifications (required at time of start)

A minimum of 2 years of post-Ph.D. research experience.

Preferred qualifications

• PhD in cell biology, genetics, molecular biology, biomedical sciences, or related field.
• Strong publication record in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Demonstrated expertise in cell biology and/or genetics.
• Track record of skills in scientific writing and communication.
• Experience with Drosophila as an experimental model and insect husbandry is desirable, but not required.
• Expertise in methods such as microscopy, molecular biology, genetics approaches, and RNA sequencing is desirable.

UC Berkeley is committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in our public mission of research, teaching, and service, consistent with UC Regents Policy 4400 and University of California Academic Personnel policy (APM 210 1-d). These values are embedded in our Principles of Community, which reflect our passion for critical inquiry, debate, discovery and innovation, and our deep commitment to contributing to a better world.

Every member of the UC Berkeley community has a role in sustaining a safe, caring and humane environment in which these values can thrive.

The University of California, Berkeley is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status.

For more information, please refer to the University of California's affirmative action and nondiscrimination in employment policy and the University of California's anti‑discrimination policy.

In searches when letters of reference are required all letters will be treated as confidential per University of California policy and California state law. Please refer potential referees, including when letters are provided via a third party (i.e. dossier service or career center), to the UC Berkeley statement of confidentiality prior to…