Laird Lab Specialist: UCSF/IVF, Small RNA Biology, and Reproductive Epigenetics

Laird Lab Specialist: UCSF/IVF, Small RNA Biology, and Reproductive Epigenetics

Job Description: The Laird Lab at the Eli and Edythe Broad Center for Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research and the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences at UCSF's Parnassus Heights Campus is seeking to hire a Research Specialist with expertise in IVF, reproductive biology, small RNA biology, and preclinical mouse models. The Specialist will join a highly collaborative team focused on understanding how small RNAs and epigenetic mechanisms regulate fertility, embryogenesis, and reproductive aging. We welcome applications from PhD-trained scientists with postdoctoral experience and extensive hands-on expertise in molecular biology, reproductive technologies, sequencing approaches, and animal studies.

Job Responsibilities:

• Lead and execute independent and collaborative research projects focused on small RNAs, reproductive biology, and embryonic development.
• Perform and optimize assisted reproductive technologies including IVF, embryo collection, embryo culture, sperm analyses, and related mouse reproductive procedures.
• Design and execute experiments involving small RNA sequencing, NGS library preparation, transcriptomics, and molecular analyses.
• Generate, maintain, and phenotype mouse models relevant to reproductive biology.
• Conduct molecular and cellular biology experiments including CRISPR-based gene editing, qPCR, Western blotting, RNA/protein pull-downs, and primary cell culture.
• Analyze sequencing and experimental datasets and present findings during lab meetings, conferences, and collaborative discussions.
• Develop and refine experimental protocols, maintain detailed records, and contribute to manuscript preparation and grant-related activities.
• Mentor and train students, trainees, and junior staff in laboratory techniques and best research practices.
• Assist with laboratory operations including ordering, equipment maintenance, regulatory compliance, IACUC documentation, and coordination of collaborative projects.

  Required Qualifications:

  • PhD in Molecular Biology, Reproductive Biology, Genetics, Developmental Biology, or a related field.
  • Minimum of 4 years of postdoctoral or equivalent advanced research experience.
  • Extensive hands-on experience with IVF, mouse reproductive biology (male and female), embryo manipulation, and/or gamete biology.
  • Strong expertise in small RNA biology, reproductive biology, RNA sequencing technologies, and molecular biology workflows, combined with the independence, leadership, and collaborative mindset needed to contribute to a fast-paced and innovative research environment.
  • Experience working with in vivo mouse models and animal procedures including injections, tissue collection, and surgical techniques.
  • Technical expertise in microscopy.
  • Demonstrated ability to independently design, execute, troubleshoot, and interpret complex experiments.
  • Excellent organizational, communication, and scientific writing skills.
  • Strong record of peer-reviewed publications and collaborative research contributions.

    Preferred Qualifications:

    • Experience with single-cell or low-input sequencing technologies.
    • Familiarity with bioinformatics tools and analysis pipelines for sequencing data.
    • Prior experience collaborating across academic and/or industry partnerships.
    • Experience mentoring trainees and coordinating multi-project research workflows.
    • Demonstrated expertise in reproductive epigenetics and intergenerational inheritance studies.
    • Candidates with demonstrated accomplishments in IVF, sperm RNA biology, transgenic mouse studies, and sequencing-based approaches are especially encouraged to apply.

      See Table 24B for the salary range for this position. A reasonable estimate for this position is $93,200-$194,800.