Junior Specialist / Assistant Specialist - Department of Chemistry - College of Chemistry
The University of California, Berkeley
About this position
Position Overview
Salary range: The UC academic salary scales set the minimum pay determined by rank and step at appointment. See the following table for the current salary scale(s) for this position: (Specialist Salary Scales). A reasonable full time salary estimate for this position is $57,000 - $65,800, contingent on starting rank and step. "Off-scale" salaries, which yield compensation that is higher than the published system-wide salary at the designated rank and step, are offered when necessary to meet competitive conditions. Percent time: 100% Anticipated start: Fall 2026 Position duration: 1 year with possibility of reappointment
Application Deadline
Open date: September 23, 2026 Most recent review date:Thursday, Oct 8, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time) Applications received after this date will be reviewed by the search committee if the position has not yet been filled. Final date: Sunday, Oct 25, 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 Department of Chemistry at the University of California, Berkeley seeks applications for a Junior Specialist or Assistant Specialist who will work in the research group of Professor Alanna Schepartz and support the research goals of the U.S. National Science Foundation Center for Genetically Encoded Materials (NSF C-GEM). C-GEM is repurposing the ribosome, nature’s protein-synthesizing machine, to biosynthesize genetically encoded, sequence-defined chemical polymers and natural product-like molecules with unprecedented structures, functions, and activities. C-GEM’s goal is to transform the way scientists design and produce materials and medicines. The primary responsibilities will be to design and execute the synthesis of small organic molecules of recurring need for C-GEM research projects under the guidance of C-GEM’s Scientific Managing Director. General duties include: Designing and executing viable synthetic routes to access C-GEM monomers in the necessary quantities and optical purities Purifying C-GEM monomers to acceptable thresholds (generally, >95%) via techniques including, among others, flash column chromatography, preparative HPLC, recrystallization, or distillation Performing rigorous and thorough analysis, interpretation, and compilation of experimental data, including all characterization necessary for publication in high-impact journals Maintaining clear documentation of protocols, analyses, and results Preparing figures and text summarizing routes and findings for internal presentations and grant reporting endeavors. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position
Qualifications
Basic qualifications(required at time of application)Bachelor's degree (or equivalent international degree) or enrolled in a Bachelor's degree (or equivalent international degree) program Additional qualifications(required at time of start)Bachelor's degree (or equivalent international degree) Preferred qualificationsBA/BS or equivalent international degree in Chemistry or a related field Post-baccalaureate coursework in Chemistry or a related field Experience in both academic and industrial research contexts Demonstrated ability to work as part of a team Experience in multi-step small-molecule organic synthesis, including the preparation of bioactive small molecules. Experience in analyzing (e.g., via NMR or LC-MS) and presenting research findings in synthetic organic chemistry.
Application Requirements
Document requirementsCurriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V. Cover Letter Reference requirements 3 required (contact information only) Apply link:https://aprecruit.berkeley.edu/JPF05582 Help contact:hsangera1@berkeley.edu