The Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology at the University of California, Davis is seeking applications for an Assistant/Associate Project Scientist in the Luxton Lab. The successful candidate will join an existing research program funded by the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H) focused on cell biophysics and quantitative live-cell imaging.
Position Overview
| Designation | Assistant / Associate Project Scientist |
|---|---|
| Department | Molecular & Cellular Biology, College of Biological Sciences |
| Institution | University of California, Davis (UC Davis) |
| Research Area | Cell Biophysics, Quantitative Live-Cell Imaging, Cell Biology |
| Location | Davis, California, United States |
| Salary Range | $79,400 – $119,500 annually (off-scale salaries available based on experience) |
| Application Deadline | Next review: November 19, 2026 | Final date: December 31, 2026 |
Research Area
The position is situated within cell biophysics and mechanobiology. The appointed scientist will contribute to an ARPA-H-funded research initiative employing quantitative live-cell imaging to evaluate and monitor the physical state of human cells during stabilization and recovery.
Eligibility & Qualifications
Basic Qualifications (Required at Time of Application)
- Education: Ph.D. in cell biology, biophysics, bioengineering, or a related field.
- Experience: Postdoctoral research experience in one of the relevant disciplines.
- Publication Record: Demonstrated track record of scientific productivity, including first-author publications in peer-reviewed journals.
- Technical Skills: Proven competence in live-cell fluorescence microscopy, quantitative image analysis, and mammalian cell culture.
- Mentorship & Teamwork: Willingness to act as the primary contact for laboratory imaging instruments, train team members, and mentor undergraduate and graduate students. Excellent collaborative skills are essential.
Preferred Qualifications
- Hands-on experience with particle tracking, microrheology, or related cellular biophysical measurements.
- Experience working with hydrogels, biomaterials, or cell preservation techniques.
- Proficiency in programming languages used for image processing and analysis (e.g., Python).
- Previous involvement in collaborative, multi-institution research efforts.
Job Description & Responsibilities
The Project Scientist will make intellectual and creative contributions to the research goals of the Principal Investigator (PI) while executing projects independently with minimal supervision.
1. Research Activities (95%)
- Experimental Work (85%): Develop research plans, conduct live-cell imaging and biophysical assays, maintain cell lines and reagents, manage equipment upkeep, and coordinate with partner laboratories at UC Davis and outside institutions.
- Publications (5%): Prepare high-quality manuscripts, generate publication-grade figures, and assist other lab members with manuscript revisions.
- Grant Acquisition (5%): Assist the PI in preparing research sections for grant applications and compile progress reports required by funding agencies.
2. Professional Competence & Activity (5%)
- Participate in professional conferences and academic societies.
- Serve as an occasional reviewer for relevant research journals or proposals.
- Deliver presentations at lab meetings, departmental seminars, and scientific meetings.
How to Apply
Interested and eligible candidates must apply online through the UC Davis AP Recruit portal. Application files must be submitted in PDF format and include:
- Cover Letter: Detailing your background and interest in the Luxton Lab’s research program.
- Statement of Research: A summary of past research achievements, methodology expertise, and interests pertinent to the position (maximum 2 pages).
- Curriculum Vitae: Comprehensive CV including a full publication record.
- Authorization to Release Information Form: Signed form required under UC Davis employment disclosure policies.
- References: Contact details (names, affiliations, and email addresses) for 3 professional references.
For inquiries regarding the research scope, contact Dr. G.W. Gant Luxton at ggluxton@ucdavis.edu. For administrative support, contact kkeehn@ucdavis.edu.
Important Dates
- Next Review Date: Thursday, November 19, 2026, at 11:59 pm (Pacific Time) – Submit by this date for full consideration.
- Final Closing Date: Thursday, December 31, 2026, at 11:59 pm (Pacific Time).
Apply Link
To submit your application, please visit the official UC Recruit posting: Apply Online at UC Davis AP Recruit (JPF07982).
