The Villeda lab is seeking a Junior/Assistant/Associate/Full Specialist to join our group and contribute to new and ongoing projects. Our lab focuses on investigating the cellular and molecular mechanisms that contribute to brain aging, as well as those that promote the rejuvenation of the old brain. The ultimate goal of our work is to better understand how to ameliorate age-related cognitive dysfunction by harnessing the latent plasticity still remaining within the old brain. The candidate will be expected to contribute to developing and carrying out a research program investigating the cell type specific molecular changes occurring in the aging and rejuvenated aged brain through a combination of genomic, histological and cognitive analysis using animal models. In particular, the candidate will focus on aging-related changes occurring in the resident immune cells of the adult brain. An exceptional candidate will lead their own independent project, develop new ideas, be familiar with the literature, and participate in procurement of funds, where appropriate. Additionally, the specialist will be expected to assist with managing day-to-day lab operations, and perform general lab duties and be a positive lab citizen.
Required Qualifications: • Excellent organizational and interpersonal communication skills (verbal and written) • Willingness and ability to learn new methods and skills for changing research priorities. • Ability to work independently and as a member of a research team. • Ability to prioritize tasks, coordinate work tasks with others, and meet multiple deadlines. • Must have (or be in process of obtaining) a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent degree) or four years of research experience to be appointed at the Junior rank. • Must have (or be in process of obtaining) a master’s degree (or equivalent degree) or at least five to ten years of research experience to be appointed at the Assistant or Associate ranks. • Must have (or be in process of obtaining) a terminal degree (or equivalent degree) or at least ten or more years of research experience to be appointed at the Full rank.
Preferred Qualifications: • Prior experience with animal models of aging, including using techniques of behavioral neuroscience and mouse genetics. • Prior experience with resident brain macrophage cellular and molecular analysis • Prior experience in the design and assembly of DNA constructs and in vivo viral-mediate RNA/CRISPR approaches • Prior experience with single cell RNA-sequencing and bioinformatics analysis.
We are seeking at least a 1-year commitment. Depending on performance and workload, opportunities for independent research, mentorship of other trainees, and scientific writing will be available.
Applicants must meet requirements by the time of appointment. Candidate’s CV must state basic qualifications (or if pending) upon submission.
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.
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 high-quality patient care. It is the only UC campus in the 10-campus system dedicated exclusively to the health sciences.