Assistant Project Scientist-Herbert Wertheim School of Optomery and Vision Science

Position Overview

Position title: Assistant Project Scientist

Salary range: The UC academic salary scales set the minimum pay determined by rank and step  the following table(s) for the current salary scale(s) for this position: Project Scientist Series). A reasonable estimate for this position is $79,400-$92,200.

Percent time: 100%

Anticipated start: Fall 2026

Position duration: This is a one-year term with the possibility of renewal, contingent on performance and availability of funding.

Open date: July 8, 2026

Next review date: Thursday, Jul 23, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)

Final date: Thursday, Dec 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.

The UC Berkeley Herbert Wertheim School of Optometry and Vision Science seeks applications for the position of Assistant Project Scientist in the field of Microbial Pathogenesis of Corneal Infections at 100% effort.

The position primarily involves an investigation aimed at understanding the pathogenesis of infections involving Pseudomonas aeruginosa, especially the intracellular life of the pathogen, and bacterial adaptations associated with antibiotic tolerance. Another project area involves studying the role of sensory nerves in defending the eye against bacterial adhesion.

Duties include experimental work in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo using multiple models of infection and host defense, genomic and proteomic analysis of bacteria and host cells, the ability to analyze large data sets, statistical analysis, and the use of high-resolution live cell spatial imaging.

The position also requires writing and publishing of manuscripts, presentation of work at scientific research conferences, mentoring of undergraduate and graduate students and postdoctoral fellows, preparation of research grant progress reports, contribution to laboratory maintenance, and new submission or renewal of required protocols.

Basic qualifications: PhD degree or equivalent international degree.

Additional qualifications:

• Two years of post-PhD research experience.
• Evidence of a commitment to research publication, as demonstrated by a record of peer‑reviewed publications, manuscripts in preparation, submitted works, or other scholarly contributions.

Preferred qualifications:

• PhD degree in Microbiology, Cell Biology, or Molecular Genetics, or a related field, and theoretical and practical application of a body of highly specialized knowledge in the area of microbial pathogenesis acquired via prior post‑doctoral work of at least 2 years.
• Experience with microbial pathogenesis.

Document requirements:

• Curriculum Vitae – Your most recently updated C.V.
• Cover Letter
• Statement of Research – Please discuss research accomplishments and proposed plans. This can include, for example, your publication record, awards, presentations, inclusive research practices that promote the excellence of your research, and areas for future research.

Reference requirements: 3‑5 required (contact information only). Applicants must provide the names and contact information of their references. The hiring unit will request confidential letters from the references of those applicants who are under serious consideration.

Apply link: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)./JPF
05445

Help contact: kleviege

Berkeley, CA

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