Kim Lab: Research Specialist

Position Overview

Position title: Kim Lab:
Research Specialist (Junior - Associate Ranks)

Salary range: Commensurate with qualifications and experience (see section D. Qualifications of the CAPM 602.230 Specialist Series). A reasonable estimate for this position is $55,000 - $88,000.

Percent time: Full-time (100%)

Anticipated start: As soon as possible after the initial review of applications.

Position duration: Initial appointment for one year, with the possibility of reappointment contingent on performance and funding.

Open date: July 3, 2025

Review date: Thursday, Nov 6, 2025 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)

Final date: Tuesday, Jun 30, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)

The Department of Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology at the University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC) invites applications for research specialists. Under the direction of Assistant Professor Euiseok Kim, the specialists will join a team working on NIH-funded projects focused on developing next-generation viral genetic tools for mapping and manipulating neural circuits in the mammalian brain.

Duties include:

• Perform stereotaxic mouse surgeries for intracranial viral delivery.
• Conduct histological tissue processing and immunostaining.
• Operate and maintain fluorescence and confocal microscopy systems.
• Execute cell culture–based assays and BSL-2 level engineered virus production.
• Carry out molecular biology techniques including plasmid cloning and PCR.
• Collect and analyze resulting data.
• Maintain basic lab inventory and reagents for molecular biology and histology.
• Contribute to manuscripts, disseminate information through presentations, and assist with grant proposals.

This position requires the candidate to prioritize accuracy, collaborate effectively with lab members, and employ strong problem‑solving, interpersonal communication, and critical thinking skills. We welcome applicants who can contribute to increasing inclusion in scientific research.

The hiring unit will not sponsor employment‑eligible immigration statuses for this position.

• B.S./B.A. degree or higher (or equivalent foreign degree) in neuroscience, molecular biology, bioengineering, or a related field. Degree completion is required by September 15, 2025.
• Minimum one year of research experience in neuroscience, biology, or related biomedical fields (undergraduate experience acceptable).
• Experience in molecular biology techniques (cloning and PCR); mouse handling, stereotaxic surgery, and perfusion; histology and immunohistochemistry; fluorescence or confocal microscopy; and viral vector production and application for neural circuit tracing is preferred.

• Curriculum Vitae – most recent, including a list of publications (with DOI links or URLs) and a minimum of three professional references.
• Cover Letter – maximum two pages, describing research experience, qualifications, and interest in the position.

Apply link: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)./JPF
01982

Help contact: mkistler

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 categories covered by the UC Anti-Discrimination Policy.

Under Federal law, the University of California may employ only individuals who are legally able to work in the United States as established by providing documents as specified in the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986. Certain UCSC positions funded by federal contracts or sub‑contracts require the selected candidate to pass an E‑Verify check. The university sponsors employment‑based visas for nonresidents who are offered academic appointments at UC Santa Cruz, as outlined in campus policy CAPM 102.530.

UCSC is a smoke and tobacco‑free campus. The University offers a competitive benefits package and programs to support employee work/life balance.

Santa Cruz, California