Lab Assistant

UCSF • San Francisco, CA

13d • $27 - $31

About The Position

The Lab Assistant performs experiments and imaging to analyze data collected over the years for manuscript and grant submissions. The role conducts mineralization kinetic studies, performs time-lapse microscopy, and uses specialized microscopes, including two-photon and light-sheet microscopy.

The position also involves preparing specimens systematically, applying additives at different concentrations, monitoring optical density and pH, analyzing time-resolved changes, and processing data. Coding may be needed for batch analysis of specimens and experimental and technical trials. Imaging and spectroscopy results are recorded and later interpreted in group meetings with other team members. The assistant may refer equipment problems or troubleshooting beyond their knowledge to a supervisor.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent experience or training.
• Medical knowledge at least equivalent to third-year medical knowledge.

Nice To Haves

• Experience preparing tissue for structural evaluation followed by imaging.
• Ability to identify conditions and specimens that need later spectroscopic examination.
• Prior knowledge of systematically running experiments using an Agilent plate reader and following up when data appear unreliable or inaccurate.
• Ability to perform experiments independently starting from Day 1.
• Data processing, coding, data analysis, and statistics skills.
• Medical knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Perform time-lapse microscopy (25% of time).
• Perform imaging using specialized microscopes, including two-photon and light-sheet microscopy (30% of time).
• Run experiments, including mineralization kinetic studies (45% of time).
• Prepare specimens in known volumes, add different concentrations of additives, and monitor optical density and pH.
• Analyze time-resolved changes to identify fluctuations in experimental parameters.
• Code as needed to run batch analyses across multiple specimens and experimental and technical trials.
• Record images using microscopy and spectroscopy techniques and participate in interpreting them with team members.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED