Lab Assistant Pediatrics

Job Description

This position supports the research program of the Cromer Lab, which focuses on genome engineering and synthetic biology approaches to understand and control human hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell (HSPC) biology. The lab develops and applies CRISPR-based functional genomics tools, including pooled screening approaches, to identify genetic regulators of erythropoiesis and to enable scalable production and engineering of red blood cells for therapeutic applications.

The incumbent will contribute to experimental workflows involving primary human HSPC culture, genome editing, and high‑throughput CRISPR screening. This includes supporting lentiviral library production, transduction of primary cells, and downstream phenotypic and molecular analyses. The position plays a key role in advancing efforts to develop next‑generation cell therapies through precise and scalable genome engineering.

The Cromer Lab is part of the UCSF research community and offers a highly collaborative and interdisciplinary environment spanning stem cell biology, genome engineering, and translational science. This position provides an excellent opportunity for individuals seeking hands‑on experience with cutting‑edge functional genomics technologies in primary human cells.

• Contribute to experimental workflows involving primary human HSPC culture, genome editing, and high‑throughput CRISPR screening.
• Support lentiviral library production, transduction of primary cells, and downstream phenotypic and molecular analyses.
• Prepare standardized media, reagents and solutions from formulas for clinical and research use. Prepare bacterial and viral filters; wash glassware appropriately and keep laboratory facilities clean and sanitary.
• Conduct general laboratory maintenance and order supplies as needed.
• Advance efforts to develop next‑generation cell therapies through precise and scalable genome engineering.

• Graduation from high school or a General Education Diploma and equivalent experience.
• Hands‑on experience with human hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell (HSPC) culture and erythroid differentiation.
• Proficiency in flow cytometry for assessing cell phenotype, differentiation efficiency, and reporter‑based readouts.
• Experience with lentiviral production and transduction in primary human cells.
• Strong background in CRISPR‑based genome engineering, including design, cloning, and execution of pooled CRISPR screens.
• Competence in core molecular biology techniques (e.g., cloning, plasmid preparation, sequencing validation).
• Experience working with primary human cells, including CD34⁺ HSPC isolation or enrichment.
• Demonstrated ability to independently execute and troubleshoot complex experimental workflows.
• Prior experience preparing reagents and solutions in a research laboratory setting.
• Ability to organize data and keep detailed records.
• Proficiency with software programs such as Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Excellent communication skills in English.
• Demonstrate excellent attendance and reliability.
• Precise attention to detail.

The final salary and offer components are subject to additional approvals based on UC policy. Your placement within the salary range is dependent on a number of factors including your work experience and internal equity within this position classification  positions represented by a labor union, placement within the salary range will be guided by the rules in the collective bargaining agreement.

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 or federal law.