Staff Research Associate I

The SRA 1 position is for a basic and clinical translational research lab that focuses on lipoprotein metabolism. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in gaining experience in preparation for an advanced degree such as a PhD or MD. Motivated individuals will have the opportunity to work on research projects and contribute intellectually in order to become an author on relevant publications coming out of the lab. Basic wet lab experience with skills in biochemistry, cell, and molecular biology are required.

Our research program primarily focuses on plasma lipoprotein metabolism and related traits that influence risk for cardiovascular disease. While standard lipid measurements and markers of inflammation are known to predict risk, they fail to identify a sizable proportion of individuals who subsequently experience these clinical events. We and others have shown that lipoprotein particles are heterogeneous in terms of their size, charge, density, and protein content. A major focus of our ongoing work is to identify pro-atherogenic lipoprotein subspecies and to understand the metabolic pathways that lead to their formation. This research involves utilizing various techniques to separate and analyze lipoprotein subspecies from clinical samples according to their unique characteristics. These subspecies will be further characterized and potentially utilized in cellular studies.

The SRA1 will perform a wide variety of routine laboratory procedures such as buffer preparation, ELISA, and Western blotting as well as specialized procedures such as density gradient ultracentrifugation and FPLC. The ideal candidate will be resourceful and adaptable to the changing needs of the lab. An ability to work well with others at all levels, excellent verbal, organizational and written skills, and self-motivation are required. This is an opportunity to grow and learn about basic and translational research that is clinically relevant. There are also opportunities to work on research projects with postdoctoral fellows and contribute intellectually in order to be an author on relevant publications coming out of the lab. The applicant should possess a BA or BS ideally with hands-on research experience in cell and molecular biology. The appointment is at the UCSF School of Medicine, East Bay MLK Campus.

The final salary and offer components are subject to additional approvals based on UC policy.

Your placement within the salary range is dependent on a number of factors including your work experience and internal equity within this position classification at UCSF. For positions that are represented by a labor union, placement within the salary range will be guided by the rules in the collective bargaining agreement.

The salary range for this position is $26.00 - $31.04 (Hourly Rate).

To learn more about the benefits of working at UCSF, including total compensation, please visit:

Required Qualifications:

• BA/BS in biology or chemistry or a related science and knowledge of, or experience with, the basic techniques or methods required by the position; and/or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Willingness to work with human biological samples
• Knowledge of scientific equipment (centrifuge, pipettes, ultra-low freezers)
• Strong computer skills including the use of Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook
• Ability to multi-task and prioritize
• Excellent communication skills
• Flexible schedule ability to work evenings and weekends
• Meticulous record keeping abilities

Preferred Qualifications:

• Generally experienced in the described 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.