The Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA is inviting applications for an Assistant Project Scientist. This academic research role offers an exceptional opportunity to conduct innovative research centered on organoid models, vascular–immune dynamics, and tissue regeneration within intestinal and pancreatic biology.
Position Overview
| Designation | Assistant Project Scientist |
| Research Area | Molecular & Medical Pharmacology, Vascular–Immune Interactions, Organoids, Tissue Regeneration |
| Institution | David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) |
| Location | Los Angeles, California, USA |
| Salary Range | $79,400 – $92,200 per year |
| Application Deadline | November 13, 2026 |
Research Area & Project Focus
The successful candidate will contribute to cutting-edge translational research focused on:
- Mechanisms underlying intestinal homeostasis and inflammatory conditions.
- Vascular support mechanisms in epithelial regeneration and repair.
- Engineered endothelial platforms to advance organoid maturation and function.
- Integration of cellular and molecular assays, stem-cell-derived models, gene editing, and disease-relevant systems to study therapeutic regeneration.
Eligibility and Qualifications
Basic Qualifications
- A Ph.D. in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Regenerative Medicine, Bioengineering, or a closely related biomedical discipline (required at the time of application).
Additional Qualifications
- Proven experience in molecular and cellular assays, experimental design, quantitative data analysis, and preparation of scientific manuscripts.
- Demonstrated research background in endothelial biology, intestinal or pancreatic biology, stem-cell/organoid models, inflammation, or tissue regeneration.
Preferred Qualifications
- Practical experience with CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing technologies.
- Familiarity with studying vascular–immune interactions.
- Hands-on experience with preclinical models of intestinal disease or islet transplantation.
Job Description & Responsibilities
The Assistant Project Scientist will collaborate closely with the Principal Investigator (PI) to accomplish the following core duties:
- Experimental Execution: Design and conduct advanced experiments investigating organ-specific endothelial identity and vascular niches in intestinal and pancreatic tissues.
- Model Development: Construct and evaluate engineered host-immune cell co-culture platforms to bolster organoid viability and functional maturation.
- Data & Documentation: Maintain meticulous experimental records, perform statistical and quantitative data analyses, and troubleshoot protocols.
- Communication & Publication: Prepare high-quality figures and draft scientific manuscripts for peer-reviewed publication; present findings at internal lab meetings and national/international scientific conferences.
- Grant & Mentorship Support: Assist with grant writing, preliminary data collection, and provide guidance to graduate students and research trainees under the direction of the PI.
Required Application Documents
Interested candidates must submit the following materials via the online recruitment portal:
- Curriculum Vitae (C.V.): Comprehensive, up-to-date academic and research record.
- Cover Letter: Detailing relevant experience, research background, and interest in the role.
- Statement of Research: Outlining past scientific achievements and future research goals.
- UCLA Mission Statement Contribution: A brief statement reflecting on your personal and professional experiences, highlighting past contributions and future commitments to advancing UCLA’s strategic plan (teaching, scholarship, and public service).
- Reference Check Authorization Release Form: Completed and uploaded via the application system.
- References: Names and contact information for 3 professional references.
How to Apply
Candidates must submit their applications electronically through the UCLA Academic Personnel Recruit portal. Ensure all required files and contact information are fully uploaded before the application window closes.
For inquiries regarding the application process, please contact: schiong@mednet.ucla.edu
Last Date to Apply
November 13, 2026, at 11:59 PM (Pacific Time). Applications submitted by this review date will receive full consideration from the hiring committee.
Official Apply Link: Apply for Project Scientist at UCLA Recruit (JPF11392)
