Division of Cardiology – Specialist

The Cardiology Division at the University of California, San Francisco, is seeking a Specialist to conduct research in cardiovascular biology. The incumbent will work under the direct supervision of the PI in designing and executing experimental studies in in vitro and in vivo model systems, analyzing the data obtained from these studies, and preparing/formatting these data in whatever context is needed for their dissemination (e.g., publication, grant preparation, funding report submission, etc.). Our lab’s research effort is focused on understanding the gene-regulatory and epigenetic mechanisms that govern early cell fate decisions during cardiogenesis and cell state transitions in the setting of adult pathologic cardiac remodeling. We have generated/are generating several novel lines of mice and stem cells that harbor genetic alterations at specific loci which will allow us to investigate the roles for a family of histone acetyl- lysine reader proteins and nuclear tethering factors in these processes. The incumbent will require both theoretical and hands-on skills in these areas of research to contribute successfully to the growth of the lab. The successful candidate will also assist in the gathering of preliminary data for future grant proposals. Technically challenging assays of chromatin occupancy requiring very skilled and nuanced manipulations of small volumes of cells and liquids will be regularly performed in this position.

Specific Job Responsibilities:

• Culture and genetically manipulate mouse embryonic stem (mES) and human induced pluripotent stem (hIPS) cells and perform directed differentiation to atrial and ventricular cardiomyocytes.
• Design, generate, and validate novel genotyping protocols for engineered mouse genetic alleles and cell lines.
• Assessment gene expression by quantitative PCR.
• Perform timed matings and dam dissections to isolate mouse embryos at various stages of development.
• Perform rapid DNA isolation and genotyping of mouse embryos immediately following sample collection.
• Process embryonic and adult tissues for histologic evaluation.
• Perform standard molecular biology and biochemistry techniques (including molecular cloning, virus preparation and in vitro/in vivo viral transduction, Western blotting, immunoprecipitation, co-immunoprecipitation, and chromatin immunoprecipitation).
• Organize and actively maintain a mouse colony of 80-100 cages.
• Collaborate with a staff research associate (SRA) to rapidly complete necessary tasks and move research program forward.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Biological Sciences, Bioengineering, or related fields for Junior Specialist
• Master’s degree (or equivalent) or at least 5 years of research experience for Assistant rank
• Master’s degree (or equivalent) or at least 5-10 years of research experience for the Associate rank
• At least 2-years of experience working in a research laboratory in either academia or industry settings.
• Ability to perform regular drug delivery via intraperitoneal (IP) injection or oral gavage.
• Ability to collect serum from mice.
• Experience with molecular biology software (e.g., SnapGene or MacVector).
• Experience preparing, submitting, and analyzing DNA sequencing data from Sanger sequencing.
• Experience with cardiac cell isolation via Langendorff perfusion.
• Knowledge of cell culture, standard molecular biology and biochemistry techniques, and in vivo mouse modeling.
• Demonstrated ability to contribute data to ongoing research efforts.
• Skill in independently resolving broad problems that may arise in collection or analysis of laboratory data.
• Self-motivated with ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Able to learn effectively and meet deadlines.
• Demonstrated experience and ability to collaborate effectively with all levels of staff.
• Demonstrated effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to successfully work on multiple concurrent projects.
• Highest level of integrity and professionalism in working with patient data in a HIPAA-compliant and ethically responsible manner.
• Ability to effectively manage time.
• Mastery of some skill that requires an exceptionally high level of hand-eye coordination (e.g., playing a musical instrument).
• Prior publications in the field of cardiovascular biology.
• Knowledge of cardiovascular development and adult cardiovascular pathologies including surgical procedures regularly performed on cardiac patients.
• Demonstrated ability to regularly interface with multiple colleagues on a variety of different research programs simultaneously.
• Proven ability to understand research cycles and rapidly perform experiments necessary for manuscripts in revision.
• Interest and proven ability to work closely with other members of the team towards carrying out the broader goals of the laboratory.
• Self-motivated and able to learn quickly.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience with managing large mouse colonies.

UC San Francisco seeks candidates whose experience, teaching, research, or community service 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.

Please apply online at https://aprecruit.ucsf.edu/JPF03428. Applicants’ materials must list current and/or pending qualifications upon submission.