Director of Human Pluriopotent Stem Cell and Genome Engineering Laboratory

The Institute for Precision Health (IPH) at UCLA seeks an innovative director to build and lead the Human Pluripotent Stem Cell and Genome Engineering Core Facility. The goal for this senior leader is to develop the core facility into a cutting-edge program supporting the mission of the institution. The primary focus will be on production of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from human subjects/patients and the use of site-specific endonucleases to directly modify the human genome in cultured cells with a focus on pluripotent stem cells. Considering this is a rapidly evolving field, appropriate research and development technologies need to be put in place to ensure the core remains state of the art. This center is anticipated to create a substantial future revenue stream and will attract new funding opportunities and advance scientific research. The director will drive strategic operations with vast scientific impact across DGSOM departments, setting the stage for the Human Pluripotent Stem Cell Center to become a premier research center within its field.

In this role, you will be responsible for establishing and overseeing a state-of-the-art CRISPR core facility, including the management of scientific staff developing human pluripotent stem cell models and performing CRISPR-mediated gene editing. You will lead and direct research to further the knowledge and development of the field. You will also be responsible for the center management to provide exemplary services to the clients while ensuring compliance with applicable regulations. In addition to managing the fiscal and programmatic activities of the core facility, you will actively seek funding and submitting competitive grant applications to secure additional funding for the center.

Our Director will lead the research studies independently, including strategic planning, performance and management, preparation of scientific reports, abstracts, and publications. You will provide oversight and direction to the managers in the core facility in accordance with the UCLA policies and procedures. You will also coach, mentor, and develop staff, including overseeing the expansion of laboratory personnel providing career development planning and opportunities.