Associate or Full Specialist: snRNA-seq/smFISH- Schumann Lab
Position overview
Application Window
Open date: March 25, 2026
Next review date: Thursday, Apr 9, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)
Apply by this date to ensure full consideration by the committee.
Final date: Sunday, Apr 26, 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
Dr. Shumann’s lab with the Department of Cell Biology and Human Anatomy at the University of California, Davis, School of Medicine, seeks to hire one full-time employee as an Associate or Full Specialist in Dr. Cynthia Schumann's lab. The incumbent will be involved in interdisciplinary studies focusing on questions in human and non-human primate neurodevelopment.
MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DESIGNATED AREAS OF EXPERTISE
The position of Specialist has a narrow focus in a specialized area and provides technical or specialized expertise in single nucleus RNA-sequencing [snRNA-seq] and single molecule fluorescence in situ hybridization [smFISH] with human and non-human primate brain tissue in the planning and execution of a research project. The Specialist stays apprised of emerging issues and problems and maintains technical competence in the designated area(s) of specialization. Within this defined area and when appropriate, the Specialist is expected to provide leadership, facilitate teamwork, and develop collaborative relationships with colleagues and to supply input into the planning of research and educational programs. Normally, Specialists do not have Principal Investigator (PI) status but may obtain permission by exception and/or collaborate with a PI in preparing research proposals for extramural funding. The Specialist is evaluated for merit and promotion using three basic criteria
outlined below.
The incumbent will work under the supervision of Dr. Schumann and work cooperatively and collegially in a diverse environment.
RESEARCH IN SPECIALIZED AREAS (90% EFFORT)
A) The incumbent will collaborate with other research personnel affiliated with research activities involving molecular and cellular changes in the brain in neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder and schizophrenia. Specific duties may include the following:
• Effectively plan and execute snRNA-seq and smFISH research projects involving human and non-human primate brain tissue with careful consideration of tissue quality, accurate anatomical sampling, and maximizing use of tissue across projects
• Effectively plan and execute appropriate secondary methods for scientific rigor of the above. This includes histological stains (e.g., immunofluorescence) and molecular assays (e.g., Luminex based multiplex bead assays such as QuantiGene)
• Coordinate all tissue sampling efforts
• Provide technical guidance to graduate students, project scientists, and other researchers regarding snRNA-seq, smFISH and histological assays
• The candidate will participate in publications as an author
• Grant support: The candidate will assist in writing proposals and providing preliminary data for funding
• The candidate will actively disseminate information (beyond the boundaries of the campus) through informal instruction, presentations, or other means stemming from the Specialist's research accomplishments
• Other evidence of recognized expertise may include formal documentation of intellectual effort and participation in publishable research activities, first authorship on publications/patents, presentation of research at regional/national meetings, invitations to review grant proposals and/ or journal articles, invitations to participate in research projects, and/or service on advisory panels.
B) Serve as a research coordinator for snRNA-seq, smFISH, fluorescence microscopy, and histology projects conducted by PIs in the laboratory and/or department, as resources permit. Responsible for ensuring uninterrupted communication between individual laboratories, data management and preparation of reports tailored to meet the needs of the requesting individual.
PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCE AND ACTIVITY (5% EFFORT)
• The appointee will be expected to actively participate in appropriate professional/technical societies or groups and other educational and research organizations.
• Review research proposals, journal manuscripts and publications related to area of expertise.
UNIVERSITY AND PUBLIC SERVICE (5% EFFORT)
• The appointee will be expected to participate and contribute to laboratory and group meetings and other activities, as applicable.
• The appointee will also be expected to participate in committees within the department, school, campus, and other University entities, as appropriate.
For the full position description and to apply, visit http://recruit.ucdavis.edu/JPF07505
Qualifications
• Associate Specialist candidates must have 6-10 years of experience in managing laboratory projects involved in neuroscience or related medical field and specialized field; Master’s degree in neuroscience or medical related field plus 2-5 years of experience in specialization; or PhD in neuroscience or related medical field
• Full Specialist candidates must possess an MS degree in neuroscience or related medical field and 6 or more years of experience in the area of research specialization or a PhD or terminal degree in neuroscience plus additional research experience
• Minimum 6 years of research experience in managing laboratory projects involving human and non-human primate brain tissue
• Established proficiency with all aspects of projects involving snRNA-seq and smFISH in brain tissue. This includes protocol development, project management, imaging, data acquisition and data analysis
• Must have extensive experience with handling human and non-human primate brain tissue. This includes knowing a variety of fixation methods, sample collection approaches, sectioning at cryostats and freezing microtomes, and basic histological techniques
• Experience with utilizing molecular techniques such as ELISA and Luminex-based bead assays on human and non-human primate brain tissue
• Experience with fluorescence microscopy techniques on human and non-human primate brain tissue
• Experience developing and leading projects
• Evidence of academic accomplishment, such as refereed journal papers and conference presentations
• Experience with grant development. This includes piloting new techniques, providing preliminary data and application preparation.
• Broad experience with molecular techniques involving proteins, nucleic acid and antibodies
• Knowledge of array tomography and other synaptic evaluation techniques.
Application Requirements
Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.
Cover Letter - Please provide a 1–2 page cover letter summarizing your interest in the position, your relevant background, and how your experience aligns with the goals of the laboratory and department.
Statement of Research - Provide 2–3 page research statement describing your technical or specialized contributions to research, including contributions that warrant formal acknowledgment in publications. The statement should address your research activities and achievements in the context of your role and demonstrate measurable growth in research contributions, including evidence of increasing quality, productivity, scope, professional reputation, level of responsibility, and overall impact within the relevant research field.
Authorization to Release Information Form - This form is required for all applicants applying to academic recruitments. Please see the Employment Disclosure Requirements webpage for more information. Download, complete, sign, and upload the form.
Statement of Teaching (Optional)
- 3-5 required (contact information only)
• References should be from an academic or research institution with standards comparable to the University of California.
• References should hold a rank equal to or higher than the one being sought.
• Please provide the following information for # professional references:
□ Name
□ Title
□ Company or Organization
□ Email Address
□ Phone Number
*If you are an internal applicant (part of UC Davis), please provide reference contact information for individuals who do not have current or prior affiliations with UC Davis.
*References may be asked to provide letters or may be contacted by phone or email, using a consistent set of questions for each candidate.
Help contact: qrush@ucdavis.edu
About UC Davis
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, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.
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