Research Associate, Research Scientist, Biomedical Science

Department Summary

The Department of Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology advances our knowledge of life on earth at the cellular and molecular levels. Our mission is to educate the next generation of scholars, professionals, and citizens of the world by fully integrating our students into cutting‑edge research activities, including hands‑on participation in the process of scientific discovery. Our faculty conducts research with a variety of models including Arabidopsis, Drosophila, zebrafish, mouse and stem cells to address the most pressing problems in biology, health and sustainability.

The Sagasti lab seeks to hire a staff research associate to contribute to studies of intermediate filaments in neurons and epithelial cells, using zebrafish as a model. In this role, you will apply state‑of‑the‑art genome engineering techniques to fluorescently label endogenous proteins in zebrafish and use live imaging to visualize their behavior during development. You will also help maintain zebrafish lines essential to the project and contribute to experimental design, data interpretation, and ongoing scientific discussions.

This position offers the opportunity to develop expertise across molecular genetics, confocal microscopy, embryo microinjection, quantitative imaging, and zebrafish husbandry. We are seeking a curious, motivated scientist who is excited to engage with primary literature, master new techniques, and contribute to discovery‑driven research.

UCLA provides a full pay range. Actual salary offers consider factors, including budget, prior experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business considerations. Salary offers at the top of the range are not common. UC Benefit package (link) to discover benefits that start on day one, and UC Total Compensation Estimator (link) to calculate the total compensation value with benefits.

• 2 years laboratory experience in performing molecular genetics experiments (Required)
• 2 years an equivalent combination of education and experience. (Required)
• Demonstrated ability to independently execute experiments, analyze data, troubleshoot technical issues, and draw logical conclusions from results. (Required)
• Ability to interpret and follow research protocols, maintain clear and organized laboratory notebooks, and draft experimental methods with precision. (Required)
• Experience using Image
  
  J and R (or similar software) for quantitative image analysis and statistical evaluation. (Preferred)
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively and respectfully in a research team environment. (Required)
• Experience handling zebrafish, including husbandry, breeding, microinjection, or related procedures, with demonstrated accuracy in record‑keeping. (Preferred)
• Familiarity with laboratory safety procedures, biological safety regulations, and guidelines for working with vertebrate animals. (Preferred)
• Ability to order supplies, manage inventory, maintain laboratory equipment, and ensure an organized workspace to support research needs. (Required)
• Ability to perform targeted literature searches and synthesize scientific findings to inform experimental design and project direction. (Required)

• Bachelor's Degree in the biological sciences and / or equivalent experience and / or training (Preferred)

• Background Check:
  Continued employment is contingent upon the completion of a satisfactory background investigation.
• Live Scan Background Check: A Live Scan background check must be completed prior to the start of employment.

8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

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