Junior Specialist, Nowakowski Lab

University of California, San Francisco

Key Responsibilities

• Stem Cell Culture and Disease Modeling
• Design and execute experiments involving the culture, maintenance, and differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs).
• Generate, maintain, and characterize brain organoids and multi-region assembloid models for the study of neurodevelopmental disorders.
• Develop and optimize differentiation protocols to derive specific neural cell types of interest, including cortical excitatory neurons, inhibitory interneurons, and glial cells.
• Establish and validate iPSC lines carrying disease-associated mutations for modeling conditions such as Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD).
• Molecular and Cellular Analysis
• Perform molecular biology techniques including PCR, RT-qPCR, Western blotting, immunofluorescence staining, and flow cytometry to characterize differentiated cell populations.
• Apply CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing to engineer isogenic cell lines and investigate gene function and regulatory networks in stem cell-derived neural systems.
• Conduct high-throughput screening experiments to identify disease-relevant phenotypes and candidate therapeutic targets.
• Prepare samples for and assist with single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and single-cell ATAC sequencing (scATAC-seq) experiments.
• Data Analysis, Documentation, and Collaboration
• Analyze experimental data using statistical methods and contribute to computational analyses in collaboration with bioinformatics team members.
• Maintain meticulous laboratory records and contribute to research publications, grant applications, and presentations.
• Participate in lab meetings, journal clubs, and departmental seminars.
• Assist with laboratory management, including maintaining equipment, ordering supplies, and ensuring compliance with biosafety and ethical protocols.

Qualifications

• Basic Qualifications
• Baccalaureate degree (or equivalent degree) in biology, neuroscience, biochemistry, bioengineering, or a related field by the time of hire; OR at least four years of research experience.
• Preferred Qualifications
• Hands-on experience with human pluripotent stem cell (iPSC/ESC) culture, maintenance, and differentiation.
• Familiarity with brain organoid or 3D neural culture systems.
• Proficiency in molecular biology techniques: PCR, Western blotting, immunofluorescence, flow cytometry.
• Experience with CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing and its application in stem cell research.
• Exposure to single-cell genomics workflows (scRNA-seq, scATAC-seq) or willingness to learn.
• Strong organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail in maintaining laboratory records.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, multi-disciplinary team environment.
• Demonstrated commitment to maintaining a safe and ethical laboratory environment.

Application Requirements

• Cover Letter: Describe your research interests, relevant experience, and motivation for joining the Nowakowski Lab.
• Curriculum Vitae: Including a list of publications, if applicable.
• Contact Information for 2–3 References.