Zhang Lab - Junior Specialist

Zhang Lab - Junior Specialist
Department of Orofacial Sciences
UC San Francisco

The Zhang’s Laboratory is seeking a part-time Junior Specialist to join our team and contribute to a project focused on investigating the effects of CFTR on ameloblast differentiation and enamel formation using in vitro and in vivo models. This project focuses on investigating mitochondrial function in ameloblasts and the composition of carbonated hydroxyapatite in the enamel matrix of mice with ameloblast-specific CFTR deficiency.

The selected candidate will be expected to analyze the relevant literature, demonstrate creativity in developing new ideas, and contribute to manuscript writing. Additionally, the Junior Specialist will be responsible for general lab duties and maintaining a positive presence within the lab.

• Research Contributions:
  Perform experiments involving mouse colony maintenance, mouse handling, histology, immunostaining, cell culture, and DNA/RNA/protein/ATP biochemistry assays, RNA-seq analysis.
• Data Analysis:
  Analyze experimental results and relevant literature to support hypothesis-driven research.
• Innovation:
  Demonstrate creativity in developing new research ideas and approaches.
• Manuscript Preparation:
  Contribute to writing and preparing manuscripts for publication.
• Lab Duties:
  Perform general laboratory tasks, including maintaining equipment, and ensuring a clean and organized lab environment.
• Team
  
  Collaboration:
  
  Maintain a positive and collaborative presence within the research team.

• Required:

  • Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent degree) in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related field or at least four years of research experience.
  • Experience with basic laboratory techniques, including mouse colony maintenance, mouse handling, histology, immunostaining, DNA analysis, RNA purification/qPCR/RNA-seq analysis, mitochondrial activity biochemistry assays.
  • Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and maintaining a detailed, organized, prompt, and accurate laboratory notebook.
  • Willingness and ability to learn new methods and skills.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.
  • Ability to prioritize tasks, coordinate work tasks with others, and meet multiple deadlines.

• Preferred:

  • Familiarity with the biology of the tooth enamel organ.
  • Familiarity with hard tissue EDX, FTIR, and SEM analyses systems.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills for manuscript preparation.

See Table 24B for the salary range for this position. A reasonable estimate for this position is $57,000-$60,700.