The Yukl laboratory performs basic and translational research focused on understanding the barriers to curing HIV, with an emphasis on investigating the mechanisms that allow HIV-infected cells to persist in the blood and tissues. Research areas include:
- Mechanisms that govern latent HIV infection/reactivation and the regulation of HIV transcription;
- Cellular factors involved in HIV latency and HIV expression;
- Differences between blood and tissues in the types of HIV reservoirs, their mechanisms of persistence, and their responses to therapies aimed at curing HIV;
- Contribution of HIV-expressing cells to immune activation/inflammation and viral rebound after interruption of antiretroviral therapy;
- Development and testing of new therapies to disrupt latent HIV infection (latency reversing agents, latency promoting agents) or induce selective killing of HIV-infected cells.
- Development of new assays to quantify HIV reservoirs and investigate mechanisms of HIV latency/persistence
In addition, we have projects aimed at understanding the transcriptional regulation and pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2, the etiologic agent of COVID-19.
These projects involve the implementation and development of laboratory assays to apply to samples from infected and uninfected individuals, as well as cell lines and primary cells infected in vitro. We also pursue collaborative mechanistic studies with other investigators throughout the San Francisco Bay Area, the United States, and many other countries
Our lab’s mission is to train the next generation of HIV cure researchers under the mentorship of Dr. Yukl, other lab members, and collaborating investigators. Training will be provided to enable the candidate to engage in multiple different laboratory projects. In addition to training in laboratory techniques, candidates will be provided with opportunities to present their research at national and international meetings, write manuscripts, and apply for independent grant funding.
Job responsibilities include but are not limited to:
- Assist in maintaining and monitoring all equipment and procedures for quality control
- Review pertinent medical literature
- Design and execute experiments using molecular and cell biology techniques
- Process human biological samples, including isolation of cells from blood and tissues; store and ship samples
- Perform molecular biology procedures, including DNA and RNA isolation, PCR, gel electrophoresis, reverse transcription, droplet digital PCR, single cell RNA-seq, next generation sequencing, and possibly others
- Perform cell culture procedures, including culture of primary cells, flow cytometry, CRISPR-Cas knockouts, and possibly other techniques
- Implement, trouble-shoot, optimize, and develop new assays, making innovative contributions to laboratory procedures
- Assist with training of research methods and approaches to laboratory group
- Maintain detailed written record of work performed
- Perform analysis of experiment results and findings, including data collection, entry, statistical analysis, and graph creation
- Produce written reports detailing results of experiments and analysis of results; draft manuscripts of results for publication
- Present oral and/or poster reports at laboratory, local, and national meetings
- Assist with composition of grant applications
- Adhere to data security requirements
- Perform other duties as assigned
Required Qualifications
- PhD in biological related science, MD, MD/PhD, or equivalent combination of education and experience
- 2+ years of experience in laboratory research
- Knowledge of principles and practice of cellular and molecular biology
- Working knowledge of safety standards in laboratories
- Excellent organizational skills
- Careful attention to detail; ability to accurately follow experimental protocols
- Ability to manage multiple projects, tasks, and priorities to achieve desired goals.
- Ability to think creatively, solve problems, and meet deadlines
- Ability to work under minimal supervision
- Strong written/oral communication skills
- Computer literacy with full working knowledge of MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and graphing software
- Ability to analyze data and perform statistical analyses.
- Ability to make sound decisions in a manner consistent with the essential job functions.
A two-year commitment is expected. Depending on performance and workload, opportunities for independent research, mentorship of other trainees, and scientific writing will be available
Please apply by e-mail to [email protected]
Document requirements
- Curriculum Vitae - The CV must list current and/or pending qualifications (e.g., board eligibility/certification, medical licensure, etc.).
- Cover Letter
- Statement of Research (Optional)
- Statement of Teaching (Optional)
- Statement of Contributions to Diversity - Please see the following page for more details: https://diversity.ucsf.edu/contributions-to-diversity-statement (Optional)
- Misc. / Additional (Optional)
Reference requirements
- 3-5 required (contact information only)
CAMPUS INFORMATION
As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements.
UC San Francisco seeks candidates whose experience, teaching, research, or community service has prepared them to contribute to our commitment to diversity and excellence. The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status