Staff Research Associate Molecular & Cell Biology

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We are looking for applicants who reflect California's diversity and want to be part of an inclusive, equity-focused community that views education as a matter of social justice. Please consider whether your values align with our Guiding Values and Principles , Principles of Community , and Strategic Plan .

At UC Berkeley, we believe that learning is a fundamental part of working, and provide space for supportive colleague communities via numerous employee resource groups . Our goal is for everyone on the Berkeley campus to feel supported and equipped to realize their full potential. We actively support this by providing all of our full-time staff employees with at least 80 hours (10 days) of paid time per year to engage in professional development activities. Find out more about how you can grow your career at UC Berkeley.


Departmental Overview

The Department of Molecular and Cell Biology is one of UC Berkeley's largest academic departments and is by several measures (including number of the faculty and students, budget, and assigned square feet), larger than many UCB colleges and schools. MCB is divided into five divisions: Neurobiology; Genetics, Genomics & Development; Cell & Developmental Biology; Immunology & Pathogenesis; Biochemistry & Molecular Biology.


Position Summary

The UC Berkeley DNA Sequencing Facility is one of the scientific recharge facilities managed by the Molecular and Cell Biology Department. The facility supports research by providing Sanger sequencing, Full plasmid sequencing (NGS), Genotyping, High-Throughput Nucleic Acid Purification/Quantification, PCR Reaction Cleanup, PCR products Size Selection, Human Cell Line Authentication, Stem Cell Authentication and other DNA-related services. We also provide Open Access Instruments and (often free) consultation services at the request of individuals from roughly 200 research labs on and off campus. Our facility recharges approximately $1,000,000 annually and employs the Director and several staff research associates (SRAs). Approximately 10,000-15,000 DNA sequencing requests are processed each month for our diverse customer base.


Application Review Date

The First Review Date for this job is: June 2, 2026. For full consideration, please apply on or before the first review date.


Job Scope

The Associate will work with the Director, SRAs, and undergraduate laboratory assistants and will assist in many daily operations and upkeep of the DNA Sequencing Facility. The Associate's responsibilities include but are not limited to cycle sequencing reaction assembly, post cycle-sequencing reaction cleanup, plasmid purification, primer dilutions, solution preparations, PCR cleanup, nucleic acid quantification, data analysis and data entry. After gaining competence with the routine tasks in the facility, the Associate will be expected to advise researchers on how to properly prepare their samples for submission and subsequent successful sequencing. The Associate will also assist the Director and/or other Staff with activities associated with Nanopore and other 'next-generation' sequencing requirements.


Responsibilities

DNA Sample Processing & Sequencing Operations (50%)

• Under supervision, assist with the daily opening of the Facility and proceeding with established daily protocols for DNA sample processing.
• Continue final steps of sample processing initiated the evening prior.
• Prepare incoming DNA sequencing samples by organizing and setting up reactions for cycle sequencing reactions.
• Set up sequencing reactions by entering sample and customer names to DNA database, followed by planning and scheduling daily sequencing and/or DNA analysis runs on ABI 3730 XL DNA Analyzers.
• Perform basic data analysis using ABI Sequence Analysis Software and provide results to customers as appropriate.
• Maintain precise records of all work.
• Help collect DNA samples from five drop off locations on campus.
• Process samples using robotic liquid handlers (Beckman Coulter Workstations) according to established protocols.
• Prepare buffers and solutions for various equipment and assays according to established laboratory recipes.
• Use a spectrophotometer (or similar) to evaluate DNA quality and quantity and prepare samples based upon results.

Nanopore Sequencing Support (20%)

• Assist with preparing and performing quality control of Oxford Nanopore sequencing libraries according to established protocols.
• Prepare Nanopore flow cells for sequencing.
• Setup sequencing runs using Nanopore software(s).
• Initiate sequencing runs of experimental samples using MinION or similar sequencing devices.
• Perform data analysis according to documented data processing procedures.
• Maintain sequencing records containing operational parameters, customer and library preparation data, and other pertinent experimental information.

Training & Laboratory Support (10%)

• Under supervision, assist with training and supervision of student laboratory assistants.
• Assist staff and student employees with troubleshooting failed or poor sequencing results and/or sample issues.
• Assist student employees with setting up and organizing sequencing plates.
• Assist students and customers with technical aspects of pipetting, DNA preparation, reagent concentrations, primer use, and related laboratory procedures.
• Assist in updating and maintaining laboratory standard operating procedures and documentation.

Equipment Maintenance & Troubleshooting (10%)

• Perform weekly restart of four 3730XL DNA Analyzers, three Beckman Coulter Biomek NX robots, and related computers.
• Clean ABI 3730XL DNA Analyzers and load new polymers regularly.
• Perform instrument calibrations and regular maintenance work on DNA Analyzers and automated liquid handlers.
• Troubleshoot equipment problems and communicate issues to relevant laboratory personnel.
• Assist in facilitating the laboratory transition to more digitized sample handling processes.

Laboratory Operations & Inventory Management (10%)

• Assist in maintaining overall cleanliness and organization in the laboratory.
• Monitor supply levels of commonly used laboratory supplies, reagents, consumables, and ancillary materials.
• Procure laboratory supplies from approved sources as directed.
• Communicate with the Director and/or staff regarding supply and inventory needs.

Required Qualifications

• Must be a team player and adaptable to changes in work environment.
• Knowledge of a wide variety of specialized laboratory equipment, including automated sequencers, thermal cyclers, and automated liquid handlers.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety procedures and requirements, as well as chemical disposal guidelines.
• Ability to work independently in an efficient manner and with attention to detail.
• Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and oral/written communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in medium to high-throughput environment.
• Strong computer skills and general understanding of DNA sequencing and genotyping.
• Bioinformatics and programming experience.

Education / Training

• Degree in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Physics, or related scientific field plus hands-on research experience.

Salary & Benefits

For information on the comprehensive benefits package offered by the University, please visit the University of California's Compensation & Benefits website.

Under California law, the University of California, Berkeley is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role and should not offer a salary outside of the range posted in this job announcement. This range takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including but not limited to experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, analysis of internal equity, and other business and organizational needs. It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the range for a position. Salary offers are determined based on final candidate qualifications and experience.

The budgeted hourly range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position is $28.69 - $31.97, Step 1 - 6.

• This is a non-exempt, bi-weekly paid position.
• This is a full-time (100% FTE, 40 hours/week) Career position eligible for full UC benefits.

How to Apply

• To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter.

Other Information

• This position is expected to work primarily on-site due to the hands-on laboratory and equipment responsibilities associated with the role.
• Working Days: Monday - Friday
• Working Hours: 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM
• This position is governed by the terms and conditions in the agreement for the Research Support Professionals Unit (RX) between the University of California and the University Professional and Technical Employees (UPTE). The current bargaining agreement manual can be found at:
• This is not a visa opportunity. This position does not include sponsorship of a new consular H-1B visa petition that would require payment of the $100,000 supplemental fee.

Misconduct

SB 791 and AB 810 Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.

Misconduct means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer. For reference, below are UC's policies addressing some forms of misconduct:

• UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
• UC Anti-Discrimination Policy
• Abusive Conduct in the Workplace

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.