Gong Lab - Junior/Assistant/Associate/Full Specialist

Application Window

Open date: December 2, 2025

Most recent review date: Wednesday, Dec 17, 2025 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)

Applications received after this date will be reviewed by the search committee if the position has not yet been filled.

Final date: Wednesday, Jun 2, 2027 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)

Applications will continue to be accepted until this date, but those received after the review date will only be considered if the position has not yet been filled.

Position description

Gong Lab - Junior/Assistant/Associate/Full Specialist

Department of Cell & Tissue Biology

UC San Francisco

The Gong Lab ( is seeking a Junior/Assistant/Associate/Full Specialist to join our group and contribute to new and ongoing projects. Our lab focuses on the discovery of novel molecules that govern cell decisions in neurobiology, immunology and development. In particular, we are interested in identifying proteins and lipids that regulate ER-PM contacts formation. We are also interested in developing innovative reporters for live-cell imaging to visualize the cell decision at the single cell level. The candidate will be expected to contribute to the core research efforts in the lab, by conducting molecular and cell biological techniques, including molecular cloning, tissue culture, CRISPR-mediated gene editing, automated live-cell imaging, flow cytometry, and quantitative analysis. An exceptional candidate will design their own experiments, lead their own independent project, develop new ideas, be familiar with the literature, present at lab meetings, 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:

• Must have (or be in process of obtaining) a baccalaureate degree (or equivalent degree) or at least 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 a baccalaureate degree (or equivalent degree) with three or more years of research experience to be appointed at the Assistant rank.
• Must have (or be in the process of obtaining) a master's degree (or equivalent degree) or five to ten years of research experience to be appointed at the Associate rank.
• Must have (or be in the process of obtaining) a terminal degree (or equivalent degree) or ten or more years of research experience to be appointed at the Full rank.
• 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.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience in the design and assembly of DNA constructs.
• Prior experience in mammalian cell culture and genome manipulation (i.e. gene knockouts) and MATLAB-based analysis.

See Table 24B for the salary range for this position. A reasonable estimate for this position is $55,000-$194,800.

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. This position offers the opportunity for close mentorship in a supportive and friendly environment, as well as guidance and support in achieving their long-term career goals (including training in oral and written communication, flexible scheduling to accommodate preparation for graduate/medical school examinations and interviews, and opportunities for networking with other scientists).

Please apply online at: with a CV and contact information for two references. Applicant materials must list current and/or pending qualifications upon submission. The selected candidate must meet all the qualifications at the time of appointment.

Application Requirements

Document requirements

• Curriculum Vitae - CV must clearly list current and/or pending qualifications (e.g. board eligibility/certification, medical licensure, etc.).

• Cover Letter (Optional)

• Statement of Research (Optional)

Reference requirements

• 2 required (contact information only)

About UC San Francisco

As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements.

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.

UCSF is committed to welcoming and serving all people, honoring the dignity of every individual without preference or prejudice, in support of its public mission and in alignment with our PRIDE values and Principles of Community.

As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct.

* "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, or discrimination, as defined by the employer.

* UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy

* UC Anti-Discrimination Policy

* APM - 035: Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment Job location
San Francisco, CA