Research Associate - Pelka Lab

Company: The J David Gladstone Institutes
Location: San Francisco
Posted on: April 3, 2026

Job Description:

Category: Science Lab/Area: Pelka Lab Description: Who we are: The Gladstone Institutes is a distinguished independent, not-for-profit research institution dedicated to advancing human health through cutting-edge medical research and education. Our work spans neuroscience, cardiovascular biology, immunology, and stem cell biology, with a focus on overcoming disease. With a team of approximately 600 members, including renowned leaders in science and biomedicine, Gladstone operates across five institutes, alongside various centers and programs. Located at the Mission Bay Campus in an award-winning building, Gladstone offers competitive salaries and benefits, providing an optimal environment for individuals to realize their full potential and make a meaningful impact on global health. About the role: We are seeking highly motivated applicants to join us in our efforts to systematically dissect multicellular interaction networks in human tumors. Our goal is to reveal fundamental rules of tumor and tissue immunology, identify biomarkers of immunotherapy response, discover novel drug targets to improve immunotherapy, and raise the next generation of cancer immunologists. We are using a combination of large-scale genomic analyses of human patient specimens, tissue imaging approaches, genetic perturbation screens, and deeply mechanistic studies in human ex vivo and mouse in vivo models. This position is ideal for highly motivated applicants who are looking for an opportunity to further develop their basic laboratory skills, gain knowledge in immunology, tumor biology, gene editing, single cell and spatial technologies, and aim to eventually drive their own independent research projects. We are embedded in the dynamic and vibrant research community of the Gladstone, UCSF, and the larger Bay Area with ample of training and career development opportunities, and strongly believe in cross-disciplinary collaboration. What you will need: BA/BS degree and one or more years of laboratory experience utilizing techniques or methods required by the position; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Experience with general laboratory techniques, especially basic molecular and cellular biology techniques (including but not limited to mammalian cell culture, DNA and RNA isolation, PCR, DNA assembly, bacterial transformation, flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry) Highly self-motivated, reliable and responsible. Excellent organizational and interpersonal communication skills (verbal and written) Willingness and ability to learn new methods and skills for changing research priorities Ability to work independently and as a member of a research team Excellent organization and time management skills Attention to detail in experimental techniques and record keeping. What is preferred: Prior experience with DNA cloning and sequencing technologies Prior experience with T cell and organoid culture Prior experience with flow cytometry Prior experience with transplantable tumor models in mice Quantitative data analysis skills highly desirable Salary Range: $28-$33/hr. Gladstone Perks & Benefits People –work with talented, committed, and supportive teammates within an organization that values each member of its community. A meaningful place to grow and learn –whether it’s your professional skills or scientific knowledge, we have the resources and environment to advance either so you can better support Gladstone’s mission to drive a new era of discovery in disease-oriented science and to mentor tomorrow’s leaders in an inspiring and excellent environment. Healthy work/life balance –you are highly engaged and productive at work because you can have time to recharge and enjoy a vibrant life outside of work. Compensation –competitive salary. Title and salary will be commensurate with education and experience. Excellent benefits –generous medical, dental, vision, retirement plan, paid vacation, commuter benefits, access to free shuttle transportation. ? Gladstone is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, medical condition, physical or mental disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other non-job related characteristic. We make all employment decisions so as to further this principle of equal employment.

Keywords: The J David Gladstone Institutes, Santa Cruz , Research Associate - Pelka Lab, Science, Research & Development , San Francisco, California