The Chorba Lab seeks a highly motivated Junior Specialist to work as a research technician and laboratory administrator. Under direct supervision and training, the Junior Specialist will work on several highly collaborative projects including 1) the role and druggability of the processing and trafficking pathways of PCSK9 in regulating the LDL receptor, 2) the characterization of CSDE1 as a regulator of LDLR mRNA decay, and 3) the development of methods to chemically perturb protein translation in a sequence specific manner. The incumbent for this position will have many duties relevant to these goals, including the generation of DNA constructs, generation and maintenance of cell lines, and production and purification of recombinant proteins, in addition to standard cell culture and molecular biology techniques. Responsibilities also include assisting with all routine laboratory maintenance (restocking of supplies, assisting with monitoring freezers, and additional duties as necessary). Notably, the successful candidate may be required to attend to cell culture samples or experimental procedures at off-hours or on weekends when necessary.

The successful candidate for this position will have a background in general biology, molecular biology, cell biology, genetics, and chemistry. They will be involved in analyzing the effects of chemical and biochemical perturbations of specific proteins both in vitro and in cells. This work will require a number of biochemical and biologic techniques including (but not limited to): PCR; DNA and protein gel electrophoresis; Western blotting; standard cell culture; flow cytometry; transfections; DNA/RNA extractions; protein purification; buffer preparation; and microplate assays. The candidate must have clear knowledge of molarity, sterile technique, standard Mendelian genetic inheritance, general microbiology, and the central dogma of molecular biology. Specialists appointed at the junior rank must possess a baccalaureate degree (or equivalent degree) or at least four years of relevant research experience (e.g., with instrumentation and research equipment, social science research methods, or creative activities).

Our research efforts are focused on identifying and validating drug targets and developing novel therapeutic strategies to treat cardiovascular disease, with a particular focus on regulators of lipid metabolism and cholesterol levels. To this end, we pursue the molecular mechanisms of how key players in these pathways interact, and how their dysregulation leads to disease. Our work bridges the interface of chemistry and biology, where we develop cutting-edge chemical, biochemical, and genetic tools to pursue our inquiries. We are an inclusive environment and are not afraid to think big.

Please apply online at https://aprecruit.ucsf.edu/JPF03766. Applicants’ materials must list current and/or pending qualifications upon submission.