Lab Assistant - Kappel Lab at UCLA

The Kappel Lab at UCLA is seeking to hire a full-time Lab Assistant starting in July 2025 to apply and develop experimental approaches to study sequence-structure-function relationships of RNA binding proteins, and to assist with lab management. The Kappel Lab investigates how RNA and protein sequences encode molecular and cellular functions, with a focus on how RNA-binding proteins regulate RNA metabolism and how this goes awry in disease. The Lab Assistant will contribute to this goal by applying and developing high-throughput experimental methods — especially utilizing imaging (optical pooled screens) and sequencing technologies — to map molecular structures, higher-order assembly (condensate) formation, subcellular localization and function for large libraries of protein and RNA sequences. Job responsibilities include designing and executing experiments, managing and ordering supplies, and maintaining lab equipment. The Lab Assistant will be expected to have strong organizational skills, maintain high-quality documentation (lab notebook, protocols, inventory, etc.), communicate clearly, keep track of multiple projects simultaneously, and be comfortable troubleshooting in the lab. This is a great position for students graduating in Spring 2025, including those interested in gaining additional research experience before applying to graduate school.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Must graduate by June 2025, at the latest
• Must be able to start this full-time position in July 2025
• Willing commit to the position for at least one year