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Stem Cells Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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How much do stem cells jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for stem cells in California is $26.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.07 and $29.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are stem cells?

Stem cells are special types of cells that have the unique ability to develop into many different cell types in the body. They can divide and renew themselves for long periods, making them essential for growth, healing, and replacing damaged tissues. There are two main types: embryonic stem cells, which can become any cell type, and adult stem cells, which are more limited in what they can become. Stem cells are widely used in medical research and have potential applications in treating diseases like leukemia, diabetes, and spinal cord injuries.

What are some common challenges faced by researchers working in stem cell labs?

Researchers in stem cell labs often encounter challenges such as maintaining the viability and purity of cell cultures, which require meticulous attention to sterile techniques and protocols. Another frequent challenge is optimizing differentiation protocols to ensure stem cells develop into the desired cell type consistently. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including bioinformaticians, clinicians, and regulatory specialists—is common, and clear communication is key to advancing research and translating findings to clinical applications. Staying current with evolving ethical guidelines and regulatory requirements is also essential in this rapidly advancing field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a stem cell researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Stem Cell Researcher, you need a solid background in molecular biology, cell culture techniques, and a relevant advanced degree such as a PhD in biology or biomedical sciences. Expertise in laboratory tools like flow cytometry, CRISPR gene editing, and advanced imaging systems, along with certifications in laboratory safety, is often required. Critical thinking, meticulous attention to detail, and strong teamwork and communication skills set outstanding researchers apart. These competencies are essential for ensuring experimental accuracy, advancing scientific knowledge, and fostering successful collaboration in high-stakes research environments.

What is the difference between Stem Cells vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectStem CellsLaboratory Technician
Required CredentialsAdvanced degrees in biology, medicine, or related fields; specialized training in cell culture and regenerative medicineAssociate's or bachelor's degree in laboratory science or related field; certification may be preferred
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, medical facilities, biotech companiesHospitals, research labs, diagnostic laboratories
Industry UsageBiotechnology, regenerative medicine, research institutionsHealthcare, research, diagnostics

Stem Cells professionals focus on research, development, and application of stem cell therapies, requiring advanced education and specialized skills. Laboratory Technicians support laboratory operations, perform tests, and maintain equipment, often with less specialized training. Both roles are vital in biomedical fields but differ in scope, responsibilities, and qualifications.

Is a stem cells a good career?

A career working with stem cells involves roles in research, laboratory work, or clinical applications, often requiring a background in biology, biotechnology, or medicine. It is a growing field with opportunities in academia, healthcare, and biotech industries, but it typically demands advanced education and specialized skills. Job prospects depend on ongoing scientific advancements and funding in regenerative medicine and related areas.

What are the top 10 stem cell careers?

Top stem cell careers include research scientist, clinical researcher, laboratory technician, regenerative medicine specialist, biomedical engineer, biotechnologist, regulatory affairs specialist, medical science liaison, quality control analyst, and academic professor. These roles often require a background in biology, biotechnology, or related fields, along with specialized training or certifications. They involve working in laboratories, research institutions, or healthcare settings to develop and apply stem cell therapies and technologies.

What profession works with stem cells?

Professionals who work with stem cells include biomedical researchers, cell biologists, and regenerative medicine specialists. These roles often require knowledge of cell culture techniques, laboratory skills, and relevant certifications or advanced degrees in biology, medicine, or related fields.

What job categories do people searching Stem Cells jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Stem Cells jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Stem Cells jobs?

Cities in California with the most Stem Cells job openings:

Infographic showing various Stem Cells job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,805 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

Postdoctoral Scholar in Regenerative Therapy and Stem Cell Biology in Cornea Diseases

Los Angeles, CA • On-site


University of California, Los Angeles
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees

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Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

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Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Position description
We are seeking talented and self-motivated postdoctoral scholars to join our team in the Cornea Cell Biology Laboratory at the Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles to investigate corneal stem cells and corneal diseases with an emphasis on translational application and therapeutic development.
The Cornea Biology Laboratory, under the direction of Sophie Deng, MD, PhD, studies corneal stem cells aiming to develop novel therapies for the treatment of corneal diseases. One research program investigates the microenvironment/niche of human limbal stem cells to elucidate those factors that govern the fate of limbal stem cells and pathophysiology of limbal stem cell deficiency. The role of Wnt signal transduction pathway in human limbal stem/progenitor cells is under investigation and small molecules that modulate Wnt signaling are being investigated to increase the ex vivo expansion of limbal stem cells for transplantation. The second research program investigates the function of extracellular vesicles (exosomes) derived from mesenchymal stem cells in corneal stromal wound healing. The studies also involve characterization and further functional studies of these extracellular vesicles in cell-based assays and in animal models.
The Deng research team is currently conducting a Phase I clinical trial (NCT03957954) to investigate the safety and feasibility of cultivated limbal stem cells to treat limbal stem cell deficiency. In parallel, the Deng team is conducting the preclinical studies on developing extracellular vesicles to treat corneal scarring. Both research programs are funded by the National Eye Institute and California Institute For Regenerative Medicine (CIRM).
Qualified candidates should have a PhD and/or MD with a strong background in cell biology and molecular biology and demonstrated a record of achievement in research. We are seeking an independent, responsible and motivated individual with excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills (both verbal and written). The successful candidates will conduct research in one of the two research programs and assist with the ongoing phase I clinical trial.
Please send a cover letter, CV and names of three references to Dr. Sophie Deng at deng@jsei.ucla.edu and Dr. Sheyla Gonzalez at s.gonzalez@jsei.ucla.edu . Only potential candidates who meet the requirements will be contacted. More information can be found at: https://stemcell.ucla.edu/member-directory/sophie-x-deng-md-phd
Qualifications
Basic qualifications
Qualified candidates should have a Ph.D. and/or M.D. with a strong background in cell biology and molecular biology and demonstrated a record of achievement in research.
Application Requirements
Document requirements
  • Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.
  • Cover Letter
  • Statement of Research (Optional)

Reference requirements
  • 3-5 required (contact information only)

We will only contact references with your permission.
Apply link: https://recruit.apo.ucla.edu/JPF11232
Help contact: aidansmith@mednet.ucla.edu
About UCLA
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.
As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct.
  • "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer.
  • UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
  • UC Anti-Discrimination Policy for Employees, Students and Third Parties
  • APM - 035: Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment

Job location
Los Angeles, CA

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