Project Scientist – Molecular and Medical Pharmacology

Project Scientist – Molecular and Medical Pharmacology

The Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, David Geffen School for Medicine at UCLA is recruiting for an Assistant Project Scientist.

This position will contribute to collaborative research on organoid models, vascular–immune interactions, and tissue regeneration. Research will focus on the intestine and pancreas, including mechanisms of intestinal homeostasis and inflammation, vascular support of epithelial regeneration, and engineered endothelial platforms to improve organoid function. The position will employ cellular and molecular approaches, stem-cell-derived models, gene editing, and disease-relevant experimental systems to investigate vascular regulation of tissue repair and therapeutic regeneration.

Responsibilities include collaborating with the Principal Investigator in designing and executing research projects investigating organ-specific endothelial identity and vascular niches in intestinal and pancreatic tissues. The appointee will characterize vascular–immune interactions in inflammation and tissue injury; and develop or evaluate engineered host-immune cell coculture platform to support organoid function. The appointee will plan and perform experiments, optimize methods, collect and analyze data, maintain rigorous research documentation, and present results at laboratory meetings and scientific conferences. Additional responsibilities include assisting with grant-related research activities, preparing figures and manuscripts for publication, collaborating with investigators across disciplines, and providing scientific guidance to trainees as appropriate under the Principal Investigator's direction.

Basic qualifications: Ph.D. in cell biology, molecular biology, regenerative medicine, bioengineering, or a closely related field is required.

Additional qualifications: Experience with molecular and cellular assays, experimental design, quantitative data analysis, and scientific manuscript preparation is expected. Demonstrated research experience in endothelial biology, intestinal or pancreatic biology, stem-cell or organoid models, inflammation, or tissue regeneration is highly desirable.

Preferred qualifications: Experience in CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, vascular–immune interactions, and preclinical models of intestinal disease or islet transplantation is preferred.

Document requirements:

• Curriculum Vitae – Your most recently updated C.V.
• Cover Letter
• Statement of Research
• Reference check authorization release form – Complete and upload the reference check authorization release form
• UCLA Mission Statement – Reflecting on your personal and professional experiences, highlight your past contributions and future commitments to advancing UCLA's mission as embodied in the 2023-28 strategic plan. These accomplishments and ambitions may be discussed in the context of describing your teaching, scholarship, and service

  Reference requirements: 3 required (contact information only)

  Applicants must provide the names and contact information of their references.