Research Associate , MCB Research

About Berkeley

At the University of California, Berkeley, we are dedicated to fostering a community where everyone feels welcome and can thrive. Our culture of openness, freedom, and belonging makes it a special place for students, faculty, and staff. As a world‑leading institution, Berkeley is known for its academic and research excellence, public mission, diverse student body, and commitment to equity and social justice.

Since our founding in 1868, we have driven innovation, creating global intellectual, economic, and social value. We are looking for applicants who reflect California's diversity and want to be part of an inclusive, equity‑focused community that views education as a matter of social justice. Please consider whether your values align with our Guiding Values and Principles, Principles of Community, and Strategic Plan.

The Department of Molecular and Cell Biology (MCB) at the University of California, Berkeley conducts teaching and research focused on the molecular structures and cellular processes that underlie the function, reproduction, and development of living organisms. The department supports a broad and interdisciplinary research agenda spanning biochemistry, biophysics, molecular and structural biology, genetics, genomics, bioinformatics, cell and developmental biology, tumor biology, microbiology, immunology, pathogenesis, and neurobiology.

MCB research draws on a wide range of model systems, including viruses, microbes, plants, invertebrates, and vertebrates, to address fundamental biological questions. The department is organized into five divisions:
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology;
Cell and Developmental Biology;
Genetics, Genomics and Development;
Molecular Therapeutics; and Immunology and Molecular Medicine.

The Stanley lab is a multidisciplinary research team within MCB. The primary purpose of the position is to investigate the mechanistic basis of successful immune control of tuberculosis through the lens of metabolism, translating basic disease biology and pathogenesis research from the laboratory.

• Research
  • Conduct independent research on M. tuberculosis.
  • Generate knockout bacteria, test their phenotypes in vitro, and analyze the impact of genetic perturbations on control of TB infection using the mouse model.
  • Investigate the mechanistic basis of successful immune control of tuberculosis through the lens of metabolism.
• Lab Support
  • Assist laboratory staff in research projects by infecting mice with M. tuberculosis.
  • Analyze the outcome of M. tuberculosis infection by enumerating bacterial numbers in tissue.
  • Analyze the cellular immune response by flow cytometry.
• Laboratory Maintenance
  • Order supplies for BSL3 and BSL2 laboratories.
  • Unpack received items.
  • Clean and organize laboratories.
  • Ensure compliance with safety standards.
  • Maintain all safety records and protocols.
  • Act as liaison with Environmental Health and Safety to coordinate lab inspections.
• Colony Management
  • Oversee mouse colony.

• Self‑motivated, energetic and able to work in a diverse team environment.
• Significant experience with tissue culture and common techniques in molecular biology.
• Experience with macrophage culture.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Experience working with human pathogens or immunology.
• Flexibility in work schedule.

• Bachelor's degree and/or equivalent experience/training.

• BSL2 or BSL3 experience.
• Work with primary macrophages and experience with analysis of the immune response.
• Strong understanding of immunology and microbial pathogenesis through coursework and research.
• Experience with flow cytometry.

For information on the comprehensive benefits package offered by the University, please visit the University of California's Compensation & Benefits website. Under California law, the University of California, Berkeley is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role and should not offer a salary outside of the range posted in this job announcement. This range takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making…