Junior​/Assistant Specialist Sampognaro Lab

Open date: October 16, 2026

Next review date: Saturday, Oct 31, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)

Final date: Sunday, Apr 16, 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.

The UCSF Department of Neurology is a leader in neurological research and care, encompassing diverse divisions dedicated to advancing the understanding and treatment of neurological disorders. Among these, the Neuromuscular Division stands out for its commitment to groundbreaking research. Its core mission is to drive fundamental advances in neuromuscular disease through rigorous scientific investigation. This involves elucidating disease mechanisms, developing innovative diagnostic tools, and pioneering novel therapeutic strategies, all contributing significantly to the global pursuit of cures.

Beyond the Neuromuscular Division's focused research, the Department of Neurology fosters a collaborative environment that promotes cutting-edge scientific inquiry, education, and patient care. We are dedicated to translating research discoveries into tangible improvements for individuals affected by neurological conditions, striving to make a significant impact on the field.

The role of Research Specialist position is to assist with ongoing research projects within the Sampognaro Laboratory  goal of our research projects is to study the role of the lysosomal proteases and, more broadly, the role of the autophagy-lysosome system in the pathogenesis of neurodegeneration, specifically as it related ALS, frontotemporal dementia, Parkinson's disease, and Alzheimer's disease. To this end, the Research Specialist position exists to assist in the generation of data for these projects, including those involving cell culture of iPSCs and iPSC-derived neurons, biochemical techniques including Western blot/Silver stain, and confocal microscopy.

• Basic lab procedures that include Western blotting, cell culture, and some immunocytochemistry
• Microscopic imaging quantification and analysis
• Data preparation
• Maintain organized and accurate records/lab notebooks and use computerized databases
• Administrative/assist with lab ordering and lab organization

• Junior Specialist - A bachelor's degree in related science, or related field, or at least four years of research experience.
• Assistant Specialist
  -Master's degree in related science or bachelor's degree with three or more years of research experience.
• Knowledge of, or experience with, the basic techniques or methods required by the position; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Working knowledge of lab equipment, including balances, pH meters, etc.
• Candidates must meet the required qualifications at the time of appointment.
• Candidate's CV or cover letter must state qualifications (or if pending) upon submission.

• Experience with Western blotting, including blot imaging and quantification
• Experience in cell culture techniques
• Knowledge of neuroanatomy
• Knowledge of quantitative microscopy and imaging analysis
• Statistical analysis experience, coding experiencing is a plus

See Table 24B for the salary range for this position. A reasonable estimate for this position is $57,000-$73,200.

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

• 3 required (contact information only)

As a University employee,…