Zhang Lab - Junior Specialist

Open date

Open date:
August 11, 2026

Next review date:
Wednesday, Aug 26, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)

Final date:
Friday, Feb 11, 2028 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time) Applications will continue to be accepted until this date, but those received after the review date will only be considered if the position has not yet been filled.

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.

• Cover Letter
• Curriculum Vitae - CV must clearly list current and/or pending qualifications (e.g. board eligibility/certification, medical licensure, etc.).
• Statement of Research

• 2 required (contact information only)

As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements.

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,…