Neurology

Full Time

73762BR

Job Summary

The department is looking for a highly motivated, enthusiastic and organized staff research associate to assist in our aims in autoimmune encephalitis (100% effort).  We are trying to define new molecular subtypes of mental illness and move the needle on advancing new treatments. In this role you will help our team to discover and study brain-targeting antibodies in the peripheral blood and cerebrospinal fluid of individuals with typical and atypical neurological syndromes.

The Staff Research Associate I (SRA I) will assist the lab with screening human biospecimens for brain targeting antibodies using immunostaining. Key experiments will include cell-based expression assays, immunoblotting, ELISA, immunoprecipitation mass spec, brain tissue dissection, processing, and cryosectioning. Some molecular biology work, such as DNA preparation and PCR, is to be expected.  In conjunction with this, the position will in the testing and development of a documenting atlas to record staining results. 

We have a large research group in shared space so good communication skills, tolerance for feedback, and a positive attitude are important. We are a passionate, energetic group and hope to find someone who is very eager to learn and shares our commitment to the exciting work we are doing. In return, you will receive the opportunity to work on the leading edge of translational research in neurological diseases.

To see the salary range for this position (we recommend that you make a note of the job code and use that to look up):TCS Non-Academic Titles Search (ucop.edu)

Please note: The compensation ranges listed online for roles not covered by a bargaining unit agreement are very wide, however a job offer will typically fall in the range of 80% - 120% of the established mid-point. An offer will take into consideration the experience of the final candidate AND the current salary level of individuals working at UCSF in a similar role.

For roles covered by a bargaining unit agreement, there will be specific rules about where a new hire would be placed on the range.

To learn more about the benefits of working at UCSF, including total compensation, please visit: https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/compensation-and-benefits/index.html

Department Description

Throughout the Department of Neurology at UCSF, our mission is to deliver superb patient care, to apply state-of-the-art translational research methods to discover the causes of, and treatments for human nervous system disorders, and to educate each generation of medical students, neurology residents and postdoctoral fellows. By fostering cross-disciplinary interactions among scientists around the world, we accelerate the pace of discovery and champion the University's global health initiatives.

Required Qualifications

• BA/BS degree in a related science and knowledge of, or experience with, the techniques or methods required by the position; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience in basic laboratory procedures and equipment, including preparation of buffers is a must.
• Conceptual understanding of basic human physiology
• Experience in basic molecular biology techniques such as PCR and gel electrophoresis.
• Experience in experimental techniques such as tissue processing, immunofluorescence and immunoblotting.
• Experience in microscopy techniques; some knowledge of image analysis is a plus.
• Knowledge of anatomy and structures the developing and adult mammalian brain, particularly the mouse brain.
• Demonstrated computer skills (including MS Office programs), with experience updating protocol and antibody databases by manipulating xls or doc files
• Knowledge of scientific equipment (centrifuge, pipettes, ultra-low freezers)
• Ability to multi-task and prioritize
• Excellent verbal and written communications skills; excellent organizational skills; and excellent interpersonal skills to work effectively in a diverse team.
• Ability to take direction and feedback
• Ability to effectively communicate with colleagues and superiors, with proven skill in asking questions and advising of problems, via effective use of email, public/shared Google docs, and/or meeting schedules
• Demonstrated ability to use sound judgment in responding to issues and concerns that arise during research activities or communications, maintaining a professional demeanor, and escalating issues when the situation calls for it.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with mouse perfusion and tissue prep for cryosectioning
• Experience with fluorescent microscopy and imaging techniques.
• Generally experienced in job duties and in the principles and practices associated with those duties with an understanding of the underlying scientific principles
• Ability to draft routine reports and keep accurate records of work performed
• Actively seeks opportunities to increase skills and expertise
• Able to learn complex tasks with general instruction. Able to use experience to perform a variety of new techniques
• Experience database entry and underlying principles

About UCSF

The University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) is a leading university dedicated to promoting health worldwide through advanced biomedical research, graduate-level education in the life sciences and health professions, and excellence in patient care. It is the only campus in the 10-campus UC system dedicated exclusively to the health sciences. We bring together the world’s leading experts in nearly every area of health. We are home to five Nobel laureates who have advanced the understanding of cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, aging and stem cells.

Pride Values

UCSF is a diverse community made of people with many skills and talents. We seek candidates whose work experience or community service has prepared them to contribute to our commitment to professionalism, respect, integrity, diversity and excellence – also known as our PRIDE values.

In addition to our PRIDE values, UCSF is committed to equity – both in how we deliver care as well as our workforce. We are committed to building a broadly diverse community, nurturing a culture that is welcoming and supportive, and engaging diverse ideas for the provision of culturally competent education, discovery, and patient care. Additional information about UCSF is available at diversity.ucsf.edu

Join us to find a rewarding career contributing to improving healthcare worldwide.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of California San Francisco is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.

Job Code and Payroll Title

009613 SRA 1

Job Category

Research and Scientific

Bargaining Unit

University Professional Technical Employees – Research Support Professionals Unit (UPTE-RX)

Additional Shift Details

M-F, 9am-5pm