Jr​/Assistant Specialist– Molecular biology, Epigenetics, and Microscopy – Molecular & Cell Biology

Jr/Assistant Specialist– Molecular Biology, Epigenetics, and Microscopy – Molecular & 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 – $65,800.

Percent time: 100%

Anticipated start:
Fall/Winter 2026

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

Application Window

Open date:
August 3, 2026

Next review date:
Monday, Aug 17, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time) Apply by this date to ensure full consideration by the committee.

Final date:
Thursday, Sep 3, 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 at the University of California, Berkeley seeks applications for a Junior to Assistant Specialist in the James Nunez Lab, in the areas of molecular biology, epigenetics, and microscopy.

The PI studies epigenetic mechanisms in human cell lines, particularly how DNA methylation is written and remodeled on the human genome. The position is in close collaboration with Prof. Srigokul Upadhyayula to study the dynamics of DNA methylation enzymes in living cells. The project is at the interface of molecular biology, genetics and epigenetics, and high-resolution microscopy. The candidate will work closely with current researchers in the Nuñez and Upadhyayula labs at UC Berkeley and will have access to state of the art facilities for molecular biology, cell culture, and customized high-resolution microscopy equipment.

Responsibilities:
The position will contribute in three major ways: (1) genetically tag proteins that mediate epigenetic regulation in human cells using CRISPR technologies; (2) use single particle tracking of the tagged proteins using high-resolution microscopy; and (3) evaluate the resulting experimental data using appropriate statistical and computational analyses.

The candidate is required to maintain updated records of experiments performed, present the data to the PIs and research team members, and communicate the research findings in team meetings, conferences, and publications.

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

Preferred qualifications:

At least two years of research experience in the life sciences, bioengineering or biophysical sciences, which include but not limited to: biology, molecular biology, bioengineering, biochemistry, genetics, biophysics. Experience in molecular cloning, mammalian cell culture, CRISPR technologies for genome and epigenome editing, microscopy, molecular analysis of gene expression (RT-qPCR, Western blot, RNA-seq), flow cytometry

Document requirements:

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

Reference requirements:

• 2 required (contact information only)

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,…