Research Assistant — Computational Chemistry (Junior Specialist)
University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) — Mission Bay Campus
Abrahamsson Lab (PI: Dr. Dimitri Abrahamsson)

We are seeking a motivated individual to join our research group as a part-time Computational Chemistry Research Assistant. This position offers the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research at the intersection of computational chemistry and analytical instrumentation, with the potential to extend to full-time depending on performance and project needs.

About the Role
You will help develop and apply computational methods to solve outstanding problems in high-resolution mass spectrometry. The work draws on a combination of approaches, including quantum chemical calculations, molecular dynamics simulations, and machine learning. You will work alongside an interdisciplinary team in the Abrahamsson Lab and gain hands-on experience with techniques widely used in modern chemical and biophysical research.

Responsibilities

• Set up, run, and analyze quantum chemical and molecular dynamics calculations
• Develop and apply machine learning models to chemical and spectrometric data
• Process, interpret, and visualize computational and experimental results
• Document methods and findings, and contribute to group discussions and meetings

Qualifications

• Recent graduate with a baccalaureate degree (or equivalent degree) in chemistry, biochemistry, physics, computer science, or a related field or at least four years of research experience.
• Coursework or demonstrated experience in computational or physical chemistry
• Programming experience (e.g., Python) is strongly preferred
• Familiarity with quantum chemistry software (e.g., Psi4, ORCA, Gaussian), molecular dynamics packages (e.g., GROMACS, AMBER, OpenMM), or machine learning frameworks (e.g., PyTorch, scikit-learn, TensorFlow) is a plus but not required
• Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively

See Table 24B for the salary range for this position. A reasonable estimate for this position is $55,000-$58,600.

How to Apply
Please click here to apply with a cover letter, CV, and contact information for two references. In your cover letter, briefly describe your relevant background, your interest in the position, and your availability. Applicant materials must list current and/or pending qualifications upon submission. The selected candidate must meet all the qualifications at the time of appointment.

• Cover Letter - In your cover letter, briefly describe your relevant background, your interest in the position, and your availability.

• Curriculum Vitae - CV must clearly list current and/or pending qualifications (e.g. board eligibility/certification, medical licensure, etc.).

• Statement of Research (Optional)

• 2 required (contact information only)

As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements.

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.

UCSF is committed to welcoming and serving all people, honoring the dignity of every individual without preference or prejudice, in support of its public mission and in alignment with our PRIDE values and Principles of Community.