Jr Specialist​/Assistant Specialist - Developmental Biology​/Cell Biology - Molecular and Cell Biology

Jr Specialist/Assistant Specialist
- Developmental Biology/Cell Biology
- Molecular and Cell Biology

Position overview

Position title:

Jr/Assistant Specialist

Salary range:
The UC academic salary scales set the minimum pay determined by rank and step  Table 24b for the current salary scale(s) for this series. A reasonable full-time estimate for this position is $57,000 -$69,400.

Percent time: 100%

Anticipated start:
Fall 2026

Position duration:
One year with the possibility of extension based on performance and availability of funding

Open date:
July 22, 2026

Next review date:
Wednesday, Aug 5, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time) Apply by this date to ensure full consideration by the committee.

Final date:
Sunday, Aug 23, 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 Molecular & Cell Biology Department at the University of California, Berkeley seeks applications for a Junior to Assistant Specialist in the Swinburne Lab, in the area of Developmental, Molecular, and Cell Biology.

The Swinburne laboratory studies how cells work together to build organs and maintain their function. We are particularly interested in how epithelial tissues regulate fluid pressure, a problem that is central to hearing, balance, vision, and the function of many other organs. Using zebrafish, quantitative live imaging, genetics, and biophysical approaches, we investigate how molecular events within cells give rise to tissue mechanics, organ physiology, and homeostasis.

Current projects examine how pressure‑relief valves form in the inner ear, how the eye regulates fluid outflow, and how fundamental cell biological processes are adapted to the diverse physiological demands of living vertebrates.

The position involves close collaboration on multiple research projects spanning quantitative live imaging, genome editing, image analysis, and computational biology. The successful candidate will work with cutting‑edge microscopy and analyze large datasets while contributing to studies of cell biology, tissue mechanics, and organ physiology in living zebrafish. The role offers broad exposure to experimental approaches, with opportunities to develop expertise in advanced microscopy, image analysis, genetics, and quantitative in vivo cell biology.

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

• Under the supervision of the Principal Investigator, designing and executing experiments involving zebrafish imaging, cell biology, and developmental genetics
• PCR, in vitro transcription, mini‑preps, and related molecular techniques
• Data management
• Data analysis
• Participation in regular lab meetings
• Orienting new undergraduate students to the laboratory and monitoring compliance with laboratory safety standards and EH&S requirements
• Assisting with zebrafish colony maintenance
• Assisting with communal running of laboratory

The position will keep detailed records of experiments performed, conclusions made, and communication of results orally and through lab notebook records.

Basic qualifications (required at time of application)

Bachelor's degree (or equivalent international degree) or enrollment in a Bachelor's (or equivalent international degree) program

Additional qualifications (required at time of start)

Bachelor's degree (or equivalent international degree) by the appointment start date

• Experience and some expertise with molecular, genetic, and cell biology techniques
• Excellent writing and communication skills
• Facility with computers and data analysis

• Curriculum Vitae
  - Your most recently updated C.V.
• Cover Letter

• 3 required (contact information only)

Berkeley, CA

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