Assistant Specialist - Lucchesi Lab

Position overview

Salary range: A reasonable estimate for this position is $65,800 - $69,400.

Open date: August 18, 2026

Next review date: Wednesday, Sep 2, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)

Final date: Wednesday, Jun 30, 2027 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)

The Department of Urologic Surgery at the University of California Davis, School of Medicine is recruiting for a full-time Specialist at the Assistant rank in 3D tumor modeling and translational GU cancer research.

The Lucchesi Lab is focused on the development and optimization of patient-derived, 3D-bioprinted tumor models to investigate immune checkpoint inhibitor responses in GU cancers. The Specialist will contribute to research projects by supporting the bioprinting, culture, and therapeutic testing of GU tumoroids incorporating autologous immune components. This position requires specialized expertise in tissue engineering, cell culture, and translational oncology, with an emphasis on ex vivo model development and functional drug screening.

The position of Specialist has a narrow focus in a specialized area and provides technical or specialized expertise in the planning and execution of a research project. The Specialist stays apprised of emerging issues and problems and maintains technical competence in the designated area(s) of specialization. Within this defined area and when appropriate, the Specialist is expected to provide leadership, facilitate teamwork, and develop collaborative relationships with colleagues and to supply input into the planning of research and educational programs.

Normally, Specialists do not have Principal Investigator (PI) status but may obtain permission by exception and/or collaborate with a PI in preparing research proposals for extramural funding. The Specialist is evaluated for merit and promotion using three basic criteria outlined below.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DESIGNATED AREAS OF EXPERTISE

• I. RESEARCH IN SPECIALIZED AREAS (90% EFFORT)
  • A. Contributes to multiple ongoing translational GU research projects, including the development of 3D-bioprinted tumoroid models incorporating autologous immune components.
  • B. Plays a central role in studies evaluating the anti-cancer efficacy of Nimbolide in preclinical bladder cancer models.
  • C. Engages in efforts to characterize the role of ANGEL2, a mitochondrial protein implicated in cancer progression and immune evasion.
• II. PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCE AND ACTIVITY (5% EFFORT)
  • A. Contributes to the preparation of manuscripts and figures for publication in peer-reviewed journals. Participates in internal and external presentations to academic audiences and scientific societies.
  • B. Assist in the development and review of research proposals related to bladder cancer modeling, immune profiling, and tumor histopathology.
• III. UNIVERSITY AND PUBLIC SERVICE (5% EFFORT)
  • A. Engages with UC Davis core facilities and research support units (e.g., pathology, imaging, and flow cytometry cores) to enhance project outcomes and strengthen collaborative networks.
  • B. Participates in committee and departmental activities, including mentorship and technical training of junior researchers, as appropriate.

The incumbent will work under the supervision of Dr. Lucchesi and must show the ability to work cooperatively and collegially in a diverse environment.

A reasonable estimate for this position is $65,800 - $69,400.

This recruitment is conducted at the Assistant rank. The resulting hire will be at the Assistant rank, regardless of the proposed appointee's qualifications.

The successful candidate must be able to demonstrate that they are legally authorized to work in the United States. The University will not offer sponsorship of a visa for this position.