Junior Specialist- Lab Research Support

Position Overview

Salary range: $55,000 at Step 1 or $58,600 at Step 2 (Effective July 01, 2026). Junior Specialist. NEX: $26.35/hr at Step 1 or $28.07/hr at Step 2.

Open date:
July 1, 2026. Next review date:
Friday, Jul 17, 2026 at 11:59 pm (Pacific Time). Final date:
Wednesday, Jun 30, 2027 at 11:59 pm (Pacific Time). Applications after the review date will only be considered if the position has not yet been filled.

Department of Surgery – Junior Specialist Position, Lab Research Support (2025‑2026). This role involves interdisciplinary basic science research, laboratory support, and collaboration with researchers.

• Develop, perform, and contribute to translational and basic science research projects.
• Manage datasets, records, and research documentation.
• Educate and mentor students in the laboratory as required.
• Prepare laboratory orders and maintain an inventory of laboratory supplies.
• Participate in the writing and preparation of manuscripts and research publications.
• Write and edit grant proposals, including grant renewal applications.
• Ensure laboratory supplies are well stocked and work areas are clean and free of contamination.
• Perform pathology techniques (tissue fixation/embedding, cryosectioning, staining) on animal tissue samples.
• Establish and maintain human and animal cell culture lines using sterile techniques.
• Independently perform cellular and molecular biology assays such as flow cytometry, ELISA, PCR, and immunocytochemistry.
• Prepare sterile media and reagents and maintain sterile facilities (incubator).
• Correctly use and maintain laboratory equipment: micro‑plate reader, balances, centrifuges, microscopes, pipettes, cryostat, laminar flow hoods.
• Update or modify standard laboratory procedures to meet research project needs.
• Perform other related duties as assigned by supervisor.

• Participation in surgery and bioengineering conferences, societies, and educational organizations.
• Review of journal manuscripts and other publications related to surgery and bioengineering research.
• Additional education and credentials related to surgery and bioengineering research.

• Committee service for lab safety, animal care, facilities, and mentorship of volunteer students.

Knowledge of basic molecular/cell biology techniques and terminology.

Bachelor of Science degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Physiology, or a related discipline.

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with an interest in basic science; ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Beginning knowledge of medical terminology and blood coagulation.
• Skills to organize work activity, follow SOPs with strict attention to detail, and adapt to changing environments and workloads in a high‑throughput laboratory.
• Ability to meet critical deadlines and complete job assignments in a timely manner.

• Curriculum Vitae – most recently updated.
• Cover Letter.
• Statement of Research (Optional).
• Statement of Teaching (Optional).
• Authorization to Release Information Form (required for all applicants).

• Two required references (contact information only).

(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)./JPF
07543

Email: kjspencer

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state and federal law. Under Federal law, the University of California may employ only individuals who are legally able to work in the United States as established by the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986.

Certain positions funded by federal contracts or sub‑contracts require the selected candidate to pass an E‑Verify check.

Sacramento, CA