Career Center

Specialist- Structural & Molecular Biology

You will be working on a project focused on structural elucidation of SARS-CoV-2 viral-host protein complexes as part of the QBI Coronavirus Research Group Structural Biology Consortium. Specifically, you will join the mammalian cell expression team focused on establishing suspension mammalian cell lines for high levels of expression of the target protein complexes for downstream structural studies. This role is an excellent opportunity to learn a number of valuable, cutting-edge techniques in cell biology and structural biology while working with a dynamic and interdisciplinary research team. You will directly interface with other teams in the consortium engaged in protein expression from bacteria, protein purification and structural studies via crystallography, and cryo-electron microscopy. As a result you will be exposed to a broad range of research. The candidate will be trained to generate and maintain cell lines expressing affinity-tagged CoV2 and interacting human proteins and will produce cell pellets for downstream purifications and structural studies. The candidate will also help optimize protein purification for the desired targets. In addition, the candidate will also have the opportunity to participate and learn from other teams in the consortium.

You will be joining the lab of professor Nevan Krogan and work with the QBI Coronavirus Research Group Structural Biology Consortium, a highly productive and exceptionally collaborative group of scientists focusing on gaining molecular details of SARS-CoV-2 infection mechanisms. Since its start less than a year ago the group has already contributed to four high impact publications on structural biology of the SARS-CoV-2. The research of the group will further our basic understanding of viral processes and also will provide new avenues for therapeutics.

We seek a motivated, skilled Junior, Assistant, or Associate Specialist to help co-express SARS-CoV-2 viral-host protein complexes in mammalian cell culture. The Junior Specialist position requires a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences. The Assistant or Associate Specialist position requires a master’s degree in biological sciences or 5 or more years of relevant laboratory experience. In addition, the Associate Specialist position requires a record of academic accomplishments, contributions to published research, and a demonstrated record of public or university service. Candidates must meet the requirements by the time of appointment. Candidate’s CV and/or cover letter must state basic qualifications (or if pending) upon submission. Our ideal applicant is a problem solver with a positive attitude, excellent organizational and interpersonal skills, and the ability to learn and implement methodology efficiently.

Required Qualification:
Experience working with sterile technique and in biosafety cabinets
Experience in molecular cloning

Experience in transfection, viral transduction, and/or electroporation of genetic material into cultured cells
Experience in Western blotting
Excellent organizational skills

Preferred Qualifications:
Mammalian cell culture experience
Insect cell culture experience
Protein purification experience
FSEC experience

Please apply online at https://aprecruit.ucsf.edu/JPF03240, with a CV, cover letter and two reference contacts.

UC San Francisco seeks candidates whose experience, teaching, research, or community service that has prepared them to contribute to our commitment to diversity and excellence. The University of California 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, disability, age or protected veteran status.