Viswanath Lab - Junior/Assistant/Associate/Full Specialist

Position Description Viswanath Lab – Junior/Assistant/Associate/Full Specialist. The Specialist will join the PI's laboratory as a preclinical scientist on a research program focused on pediatric and adult high-grade gliomas, including diffuse midline glioma and IDH‑mutant glioma. The role involves the design, execution, and analysis of in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo studies aimed at identifying and validating new therapeutic strategies and imaging biomarkers for these tumors. The Specialist will work closely with the PI and collaborate with the broader initiative team, including a co‑leading laboratory and shared research staff. Responsibilities Perform in vitro studies, including culture and characterization of patient‑derived glioma cell lines and organoids, drug response and combination studies, and mechanistic assays to evaluate target engagement and downstream signaling. Focus on immunometabolism: characterize metabolic states in tumor and immune compartments, conduct isotope tracing studies, and analyze how metabolic perturbations affect tumor‑immune interactions in the brain tumor microenvironment. Execute in vivo responsibilities: orthotopic implantation of patient‑derived and syngeneic glioma models, drug administration via relevant routes, longitudinal monitoring by bioluminescence imaging and other modalities, and survival studies. Contribute to pharmacokinetic and brain penetration assessments of candidate compounds in coordination with collaborating laboratories. Collaborate with the larger initiative team, contribute to experimental planning, data analysis, presentation at internal and external meetings, and preparation of figures and text for manuscripts and grant submissions. Comply with IACUC and Biological Use Authorization (BUA) guidelines. Complete all required training, work within approved protocols, maintain accurate records, and follow institutional standards for animal welfare and biosafety at all times. Required Qualifications Junior rank: baccalaureate degree in a related science (or equivalent) or at least four years of research experience. Assistant rank: master’s degree (or equivalent) or baccalaureate degree with three or more years of research experience. Associate rank: master’s degree (or equivalent) or five to ten years of research experience. Full rank: terminal degree (or equivalent) or ten or more years of research experience. Applicants must meet all the qualifications by the time of hire and must list current and/or pending qualifications upon submission. Preferred Qualifications Ph.D. in biochemistry, molecular biology, cancer biology, immunology, neuroscience, or a related discipline, with at least six years of relevant postdoctoral research experience. Hands‑on expertise in mammalian cell culture, including patient‑derived organoid culture, and standard molecular and cell biology techniques. Experience with orthotopic implantation of tumors in mice, in vivo bioluminescence imaging, and rodent drug administration. Experience with flow cytometry, including immunophenotyping and sorting. Experience with brain tumor models, including pediatric high‑grade glioma or diffuse midline glioma. Experience with single‑cell RNA sequencing sample preparation and analysis, and familiarity with immunometabolism, isotope tracing, or metabolomics workflows. Experience with CRISPR‑Cas9 gene editing and high‑throughput drug screening. Prior experience working under IACUC and biosafety protocols in academic research. Track record of peer‑reviewed publications. Strong written and verbal communication skills and demonstrated ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team. Salary $55,000–$194,800 (based on Table 24B). EEO Statement 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. Location San Francisco, CA #J-18808-Ljbffr University of California, San Francisco