Join – UCLA Laboratory for Stress Assessment and Research

Current Job Openings:

UCLA Post-doctoral Fellowship in the Psychobiology of Drug Use & Health Disparities Among Sexual and Gender Minority Youth (One Position!)
UCLA Postdoctoral Fellowship in the Psychoneuroimmunology & Tailored Prevention of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and Toxic Stress (Not Available)
Stanford Postdoctoral Fellowship in Multi-Omics, Precision Medicine Research on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) (Not Available)
Project Coordinator for UCLA-Stanford-UCSF Study of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), Precision Medicine, and Resilience (Not Available)

(1) UCLA Post-doctoral Fellowship in the Psychobiology of Drug Use & Health Disparities Among Sexual and Gender Minority Youth (One Position!)

Application Review Date: November 15th, 2021
Application Form: https://forms.gle/AAG9aPYKzr7MiNs17

The UCLA Laboratory for Stress Assessment and Research (PI: George Slavich) seeks to hire a full-time post-doctoral fellow as soon as possible. This one-year position is funded by NIDA (U01 DA036926) and comes with full salary and benefits. The position is available immediately and the start date is flexible, although sooner is better. Remote or hybrid work is possible.

This fellowship provides a unique opportunity to work with a highly collaborative team of investigators, including Dr. Slavich and Dr. Michele Kipke at the Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles. The fellowship will entail working on a longitudinal project investigating African American and Latinx sexual- and gender-minority youth engagement in HIV prevention and care continua, drug use, and mental and physical health outcomes using mixed methods. In this position, the postdoctoral fellow will be responsible for coordinating with various laboratories to ensure that biological specimens are properly analyzed. In doing so, the fellow will not be expected to conduct biological assays but will need to ensure that those logistics are managed effectively. Other key responsibilities will include taking the lead on analyzing and interpreting study data, communicating project updates to the investigative team, presenting at conferences, and preparing manuscripts for publication in collaboration with Drs. Slavich & Kipke and the entire study team. Other related duties may also be assigned.

Required Qualifications

Ph.D. (or expected Ph.D. by start date) in psychology or a related field relevant for studying the psychobiology of health disparities and/or drug use
Strong prior conceptual and/or technical training in social-biological determinants of health
Advanced data analysis skills, including the ability to analyze multi-wave longitudinal data
Evidence of past scientific productivity and future promise
Excellent organizational and project management skills

Applicants should have a keen interest in studying intersectionality and stigma experienced by racial and sexual minority youth, as well as psychological and biological processes underlying health disparities (e.g., by assessing inflammatory activity, gene expression, biological aging). Prior experience or mentored training in health psychology, psychoneuroimmunology, immunology, social genomics, and/or molecular and phenotypic biomarkers of aging is highly desirable.

The fellowship will be based at the UCLA Laboratory for Stress Assessment and Research, which is located in the Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior at UCLA (https://www.uclastresslab.org). Self-motivated, highly reliable, scientifically creative individuals, who are looking to work in an exciting, multi-disciplinary environment, are encouraged to apply. Women, minorities, BIPOC, and persons from disadvantaged backgrounds or circumstances are especially encouraged to apply. Complete UCLA salary and benefits information is online at: https://www.postdoc.ucla.edu/.

To apply, please complete the online Job Application Form at https://forms.gle/AAG9aPYKzr7MiNs17, which will request: (a) basic application information, (b) updated CV, and (c) one-page (max) cover letter. Applicants should submit their materials by November 15th, 2021, to ensure full consideration. Application feedback will not be provided but as a professional courtesy, all applicants will be notified when a final decision has been reached. We kindly request that applicants do not reach out to the lab staff or PI at this stage in the application process.

The shared values of the David Geffen School of Medicine (DGSOM) at UCLA are expressed in the Cultural North Star, which was developed by members of our community and affirms our unswerving commitment to doing what’s right, making things better, and being kind. These are the standards to which we hold ourselves, and one another. Please read more about this important DGSOM program at DGSOM Cultural North Star.

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. For the complete University of California nondiscrimination and affirmative action policy see: UC Nondiscrimination and Affirmative Action Policy.

(2) UCLA Postdoctoral Fellowship in the Psychoneuroimmunology & Tailored Prevention of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and Toxic Stress (NOT AVAILABLE)

Application Review Date: November 30th, 2021
Application Form: https://forms.gle/AAG9aPYKzr7MiNs17

The UCLA Laboratory for Stress Assessment and Research (PI: George Slavich) seeks to hire up to two full-time post-doctoral research fellows to begin in August 2022. These postdoctoral fellows will conduct research in the area of life stress, health, and resilience, with a focus on understanding psychobiological processes linking adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and health, and, in addition, how the effects of life stress on health can be mitigated using a personalized psychosocial intervention program.

This position is the result of California Surgeon General Nadine Burke Harris’ focus on reducing health disparities due to ACEs. The fellowship is supported by a $3 million grant from the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research (PI: George Slavich), in partnership with the Office of the California Surgeon General and the California Initiative to Advance Precision Medicine (funding announcement: https://opr.ca.gov/ciapm/activity/research/aces/awardees.html). The position(s) provide full salary and benefits as well as the opportunity to work and professionally grow with a world-class collaborative team of researchers (see below). The desired start date is August 15th, 2022. The initial appointment is for one year, with the possibility of renewal for a second year.

The project around which this fellowship is based combines the best of stress science and precision medicine to address the health impacts of ACEs through a collaborative precision medicine approach. The aim of the parent project is to harness the power of cutting-edge tools from psychology, immunology, multiomics, and translational bioinformatics to identify social, molecular, and immunological processes that can be targeted to mitigate toxic stress effects and enhance personalized resilience in California. The project is led by Dr. George Slavich (UCLA) and is co-directed by Dr. Michael Snyder (Stanford). Other Co-Investigators include Drs. Atul Butte (UCSF), Patricia Lester (UCLA), Alicia Lieberman (UCSF), and Shannon Thyne (UCLA). The position(s) will be based at UCLA under the direction of Dr. Slavich, although the postdoctoral fellow(s) will have the opportunity to interact with the entire investigative team.

In this position, the postdoctoral fellow(s) will assist with project management, take the lead on analyzing and interpreting study data, write collaborative empirical and review articles, and develop professional presentations with Dr. Slavich and his investigative team on the topic of stress, health, and resilience. Other related duties may also be assigned.

Required Qualifications

Ph.D. (or expected Ph.D. by start date) in psychology or a related field relevant for studying the psychoneuroimmunology of stress, health, resilience and/or prevention science
Advanced data analysis skills, including the ability to analyze multi-wave longitudinal data
Evidence of past scientific productivity and future promise
Excellent organizational and project management skills

The successful candidate will have core expertise with relevant conceptual and/or technical training in one or more of the following areas:

Effects of childhood/early life adversity on health in adulthood
Precision medicine and health, particularly using digital health technologies
Ambulatory monitoring of stress physiology using wearables
Intervention science
Psychobiology or psychoneuroimmunology of stress and health
Social safety signaling

The UCLA Laboratory for Stress Assessment and Research pioneers cutting-edge research on stress and health, and is located in the Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior at UCLA (see https://www.uclastresslab.org). Self-motivated, highly reliable, scientifically creative individuals, who are looking to work and professionally grow in an exciting, multi-disciplinary environment are encouraged to apply. Women, minorities, BIPOC, and persons from disadvantaged backgrounds or circumstances are especially encouraged to apply. Complete UCLA salary and benefits information is online at: https://www.postdoc.ucla.edu/.

To apply, please complete the online Job Application Form located at https://forms.gle/AAG9aPYKzr7MiNs17, which will request: (a) basic application information, (b) updated CV, and (c) one-page (max) cover letter. Applicants should submit their materials by November 30th, 2021, to ensure full consideration. Application feedback will not be provided but as a professional courtesy, all applicants will be notified when a final decision has been reached. We kindly request that applicants do not reach out to the lab staff or PI at this stage of the application process.

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. For the complete University of California nondiscrimination and affirmative action policy see: UC Nondiscrimination and Affirmative Action Policy.

Recent Project News

(3) Stanford Postdoctoral Fellowship in Multi-Omics, Precision Medicine Research on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) (NOT AVAILABLE)

Application Review Date: November 30th, 2021
Application Form: https://forms.gle/AAG9aPYKzr7MiNs17

The Snyder Lab at the Stanford University School of Medicine (PI: Michael Snyder) seeks to hire a full-time postdoctoral research fellow as soon as possible. The postdoctoral fellow will apply ideas and methods from multi-omics and precision medicine to understand how adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) such as abuse, neglect, housing insecurity, and parental divorce affect mental and physical health over the lifespan.

This position is the result of California Surgeon General Nadine Burke Harris’ focus on reducing health disparities due to ACEs. The fellowship is supported by a $3 million grant from the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research (PI: George Slavich), in partnership with the Office of the California Surgeon General and the California Initiative to Advance Precision Medicine (funding announcement: https://opr.ca.gov/ciapm/activity/research/aces/awardees.html). The position provides full salary and benefits as well as the opportunity to work and professionally grow with a world-class collaborative team of researchers (see below). The position is available immediately and the start date is flexible, although sooner is better. The initial job appointment is for one year, with the possibility of renewal for a second year.

The project around which this fellowship is based combines the best of stress science and precision medicine to address the health impacts of ACEs through a collaborative precision medicine approach. The aim of the parent project is to harness the power of cutting-edge tools from psychology, immunology, multiomics, and translational bioinformatics to identify social, molecular, and immunological processes that can be targeted to mitigate toxic stress effects and enhance personalized resilience in California. The project is led by Dr. George Slavich (UCLA) and is co-directed by Dr. Michael Snyder (Stanford). Other Co-Investigators include Drs. Atul Butte (UCSF), Patricia Lester (UCLA), Alicia Lieberman (UCSF), and Shannon Thyne (UCLA). The position will be based at Stanford University under the direction of Dr. Snyder, although the postdoctoral fellow will have the opportunity to interact with the entire investigative team.

The Snyder Lab (https://med.stanford.edu/snyderlab.html) is known for developing and applying a variety of innovative approaches to analyze genomes, epigenomes, transcriptomes (RNA), proteomes and regulatory networks (omics) for the understanding and managing of human health and disease. Applicants should be experienced in profiling using relevant multi-omics technologies and interested in applying multi-omics approaches to stress and health research.

Responsibilities will include but not be limited to independently coordinating and conducting the multi-omics portion of this research project under Dr. Snyder’s supervision. Other duties include:

Independently conduct in-depth profiling using multi-omics technologies, including untargeted proteomics, metabolomics, lipidomics, and genomics, as well as measuring cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors
Process, analyze, and interpret physiological and behavioral activity data from wearable technologies (e.g., smartwatches)
Interpret study results
Maintain detailed records of processes and outcomes
Effectively and consistently communicate project management updates and results with the multidisciplinary and multi-site team
Perform literature reviews to remain current with new procedures and related research, and apply knowledge to ongoing research and the development of new protocols
Take the lead in preparing empirical articles for publication and presenting ongoing work to colleagues and/or at academic conferences
Oversee the supply and equipment budget under the supervision of the principal investigator or business manager
Other related duties may also be assigned

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

PhD in a relevant discipline (e.g., cell and/or molecular biology, genetics, inflammatory biology, proteomics, metabolomics, lipidomics, functional genomics, personal omics profiling) by the time the position starts.
Prior experience conducting complex lab experiments in proteomics, metabolomics, lipidomics, and/or genomics. Proficiency with basic molecular biology techniques, such as plasmid preparation, PCR, immunoblots, and ELISAs.
Meticulous record keeping for biological assessments and outcomes.
Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to accurately complete detailed work.
General computer skills and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs, databases, and scientific applications.

Self-motivated, highly reliable, scientifically creative individuals, who are looking to work and professionally grow in an exciting, multi-disciplinary environment are encouraged to apply. Women, minorities, BIPOC, and persons from disadvantaged backgrounds or circumstances are especially encouraged to apply. Complete Stanford University salary and benefits information is online at: https://postdocs.stanford.edu/.

To apply, please complete the online Job Application Form located at https://forms.gle/AAG9aPYKzr7MiNs17, which will request: (a) basic application information, (b) updated CV, and (c) one-page (max) cover letter. Applicants should submit their materials by November 15th, 2021, to ensure full consideration. Application feedback will not be provided but as a professional courtesy, all applicants will be notified when a final decision has been reached. We kindly request that applicants do not reach out to the lab staff or PI at this stage in the application process.

Other duties may also be assigned, not all unique aspects of this job are covered by this job posting. A full job description will be shared during the interview process.

Stanford University is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer, committed to increasing the diversity of its workforce. It welcomes applications from women, members of minority groups, veterans, persons with disabilities, and others who would bring additional dimensions to the university’s research and teaching mission.

Recent Project News

(4) Project Coordinator for UCLA-Stanford-UCSF Study of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), Precision Medicine, and Resilience (NOT AVAILABLE)

Application Review Date: November 30th, 2021
Application Form: https://forms.gle/AAG9aPYKzr7MiNs17

The UCLA Laboratory for Stress Assessment and Research (PI: George Slavich) seeks to hire a full-time project coordinator as soon as possible. The project coordinator will manage the day-to-day operations of a large, multi-site study investigating the effects of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on mental and physical health over the lifespan, as well as the design and implementation of a personalized psychosocial intervention program for mitigating the negative effects of life stressor exposure on psychological and biological health.

This position is the result of California Surgeon General Nadine Burke Harris’ focus on reducing health disparities due to ACEs. The fellowship is supported by a $3 million grant from the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research (PI: George Slavich), in partnership with the Office of the California Surgeon General and the California Initiative to Advance Precision Medicine (funding announcement: https://opr.ca.gov/ciapm/activity/research/aces/awardees.html). The position provides full salary and benefits as well as the opportunity to work and professionally grow with a world-class collaborative team of researchers (see below). The position is available immediately and the start date is flexible, although sooner is better. Funding for the position is available through August 14th, 2024.

This project combines the best of stress science and precision medicine to address the health impacts of ACEs through a collaborative precision medicine approach. The aim of the parent project is to harness the power of cutting-edge tools from psychology, immunology, multiomics, and translational bioinformatics to identify social, molecular, and immunological processes that can be targeted to mitigate toxic stress effects and enhance personalized resilience in California. The project is led by Dr. George Slavich (UCLA) and is co-directed by Dr. Michael Snyder (Stanford). Other Co-Investigators include Drs. Atul Butte (UCSF), Patricia Lester (UCLA), Alicia Lieberman (UCSF), and Shannon Thyne (UCLA). The position(s) will be based at UCLA under the direction of Dr. Slavich, although the project coordinator will have the opportunity to interact with the entire investigative team.

In this position, the project coordinator will be responsible for independently coordinating and conducting the multi-site research project under Dr. Slavich’s supervision. Duties will include but not be limited to:

Develop and implement standardized study and data collection protocols
Recruit and maintain participant engagement and retention in partnership with healthcare clinics across California
Coordinate remote data collection, including shipping materials to and from participants, and troubleshooting issues that arise
Communicate and collaborate regularly with project and clinic staffers
Monitor complex project and laboratory activities
Prepare reports and updates for the investigative team and attend team meetings
Data entry and quality control
Help develop the Institutional Review Board (IRB) application, act as a liaison to the IRB for the project, and help ensure that all study procedures are consistent with approved guidelines and practices, and applicable regulations
Manage study supplies and budgeting under the supervision of the principal investigator
Other related duties may also be assigned

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree (or expected Bachelor’s degree by start date) in psychology, public health, social work, or related field
Prior experience as a research assistant or coordinator, or other relevant management experience
Impeccable organizational and project management skills, including a demonstrated ability to independently organize work and manage multiple priorities to meet deadlines
Excellent oral and written communication skills
Demonstrated ability to work well in a team and excellent interpersonal skills
Excellent attention to detail
High level of professionalism, integrity, and work ethic
Basic knowledge of Microsoft Office (e.g., Word, Excel)
Basic knowledge of statistical software program(s) (e.g., SPSS)
Prior experience coordinating or managing community-based participatory research, evidence of successful participant engagement/retention, and evidence of strong management skills are highly desirable

Recent Project News

Background About the Lab and Other Positions

A core mission of the Laboratory for Stress Assessment and Research is to provide training opportunities for individuals at all levels of professional development. We pride ourselves in helping trainees develop the conceptual and practical skills that are necessary to conduct scientifically sound, cutting-edge research on stress and health. Interested individuals should send a short (max 1-page) letter of interest and an updated CV to the lab director, Dr. George Slavich. In your letter, please include the following four sections: (a) brief overview of professional (research + clinical) interests; (b) past research training, clinical training (if any), and relevant coursework and skills; (c) current desired training goals; and (d) future career/professional goals (near-future and long-term goals).

Undergraduate Students

Undergraduate students from UCLA and from nearby institutions are invited to join the lab as research assistants or project coordinators. Students are exposed to all aspects of the research process, including conducting literature reviews, analyzing data, and managing projects and studies. Students also have the opportunity to conduct a thesis on their research, and/or to present their work at regional and national conferences. A minimum 3-quarter commitment is required, although most undergraduate students remain in the lab for several years.

Graduate Students, Medical Students, & Residents

Graduate students, medical students, and medical school residents are invited to join the lab to receive training in stress assessment and research. Students have the opportunity to work with existing data from projects listed on the Projects page, and/or to conduct independent, mentored research on any topic related to stress and health, including stress and inflammation, social signal transduction, and human social genomics. Eligible students come from the Ph.D. program in psychology at UCLA, the Ph.D. program in neuroscience at UCLA, the M.D. and M.D.-Ph.D. programs at UCLA, and the medical residency program at UCLA.

Postdoctoral Fellows

Postdoctoral fellows are invited to join the lab to receive advanced training in stress assessment and research in the context of ovarian cancer, breast cancer, and depression. Postdoctoral fellows are expected to develop and pursue independent lines of research on these topics using existing lab data and/or by conducting original, mentored research. Fellows may enter the lab via the UCLA post-graduate training program in psychoneuroimmunology, or by obtaining a National Research Service Award (NRSA, F-32) or similar award that supports their development. Successful fellows have the opportunity to develop into independent investigators in the lab.

Visiting Scholars

Visiting scholars from around the world are invited to join the lab for periods ranging from a few months to several years. During this time, scholars collaboratively develop and carry-out original projects within the context of the lab, or they work on existing projects or data. A successful track record of publishing, and oral and written fluency in English are required.