Junior Specialist in Neuroscience Research Institute (Kosik lab)

Position overview

Salary range: A reasonable estimate that the University expects to pay for this position at 100% time is $56,300 - $62,100 annually.

Percent time: 100%

Anticipated start: June/July 2026 or later.

Position duration: Initial appointment is for one year, full time with benefits. Continuation beyond one year will be based on performance and availability of funding.

Application Window

Open date: May 29, 2026

Next review date: Monday, Jun 15, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)

Apply by this date to ensure full consideration by the committee.

Final date: Tuesday, Sep 15, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)

Applications will continue to be accepted until this date, but those received after the review date will only be considered if the position has not yet been filled.

Position description

The laboratory of Dr. Kenneth Kosik in the Neuroscience Research Institute at the University of California, Santa Barbara invites applications for a full-time Junior Specialist. The appointee will contribute to ongoing research in mammalian neuronal systems by establishing primary neuronal cultures from mouse embryos and pups, including dissociation of brain tissue and subsequent plating of neurons, as well as assisting with the routine maintenance of iPSC lines through passaging, media changes, and management of cryopreserved stocks.

Key Responsibilities:

• Contribute to the differentiation of iPSC lines into relevant neural cell types, including cortical neurons, astrocytes, and other lineages required by ongoing projects.
• Generate human brain organoids from iPSC lines while troubleshooting and optimizing established protocols.
• Prepare and perform systematic quality control of brain organoids and neural cell cultures through brightfield and fluorescence microscopy, cell viability assays, RT-qPCR, and immunocytochemistry.
• Assist in characterizing neuronal cultures and brain organoids immunocytochemically, communicating results and preparing reports.
• Support general laboratory operations related to the stem cell facility including reagent procurement, inventory management, and preparation of media and solutions.
• Maintain thorough and accurate experimental records and contribute to the presentation of results at laboratory meetings.

Qualifications

Basic qualifications (required at time of application)

Applicants must have completed or be currently enrolled in a BA or BS program in biology or related field at the time of application.

Additional qualifications (required at time of start)

• Applicants must have their bachelor's degree conferred by the start date of the position.
• Two to three years of cell culture experience at time of start.

Preferred qualifications

The ideal candidate will have experience in:

• Cell culture
• Stem cells
• Molecular biology

Application Requirements

Document requirements

• Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.

• Cover Letter

Reference requirements

• 3-5 required (contact information only)

Please provide the names and complete contact information for 3 references. References for the finalists may be contacted if necessary, at the committee's discretion, before extending an offer.

Apply link: https://recruit.ap.ucsb.edu/JPF03115

Help contact: cushing@lifesci.ucsb.edu

About UC Santa Barbara

As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct.

• "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment or discrimination as defined by the employer.
• UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
• UC Anti-Discrimination Policy for Employees, students and third parties
• APM - 035: Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment

Additionally, you will be required to comply with the University of California Policy on Vaccination Programs, as may be amended or revised from time to time. Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements.

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.

Job location

Santa Barbara, CA