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Project Scientist Series, Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior
Psychiatry and Human Behavior / School of Medicine / UC IrvinePosition overview
Application Window
Open date:July 1, 2025
Most recent review date:Friday, Oct 10, 2025 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)
Applications received after this date will be reviewed by the search committee if the position has not yet been filled.
Final date:Tuesday, Jun 30, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)
Applications will continue to be accepted until this date, but those received after the review date will only be considered if the position has not yet been filled.
Position description
Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior
Position: Project Scientist Series
The University of California, Irvine, School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior anticipates openings in the Project Scientist Series.
Qualifications: Candidates must possess a M.D. degree and/or Ph.D. degree with experience in psychiatry, neuroscience, genetics, imaging, radiopharmaceutical chemistry or related field. Salaries are based on University of California salary scales, which are dependent on academic rank and step, and commensurate with experience.
Application Procedure: Interested candidates should apply through UC Irvine’s RECRUIT system located at https://recruit.ap.uci.edu/JPF09629
Applicants should complete an online application profile and upload the following application materials electronically to be considered for the position:
Cover Letter
Curriculum Vitae
Contact Information for 3 – 4 References
Sexual Misconduct, Harassment and Discrimination Declaration Form
Qualifications
M.D. and/or Ph.D. candidates with experience in psychiatry, neuroscience, genetics, imaging, radiopharmaceutical chemistry or related field.
Application Requirements
Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.
Cover Letter
Statement of Research (Optional)
Teaching Statement - See our .
(Optional)
About UC Irvine
The University of California, Irvine 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 categories covered by the UC anti-discrimination policy .
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.
Job location
Freqently Asked Questions
This position uniquely blends psychiatry with cutting-edge neuroscience and genetics, fostering interdisciplinary projects that push forward mental health understanding. Candidates engage in research connecting brain imaging and radiopharmaceutical chemistry, enhancing both clinical and scientific innovation within UC Irvine’s Department of Psychiatry.
The Project Scientist Series emphasizes advanced research leadership combined with hands-on expertise in psychiatry and related fields like neuroimaging and genetics. Unlike typical roles, it demands a strong academic background (MD and/or PhD) and offers collaboration opportunities within a top-tier medical school environment.
Candidates with experience bridging psychiatry, neuroscience, and radiopharmaceutical chemistry tend to excel. Demonstrated proficiency in advanced imaging techniques and genetic analysis, paired with a doctoral degree, greatly enhances competitiveness for this research-intensive role.
Salaries typically align with UC’s structured academic pay scales, adjusted for experience and rank. In Orange, CA, such roles usually range from $90,000 to $140,000 annually, reflecting the high demand for specialized behavioral health scientists and the cost of living in the area.
Orange County's expanding medical research sector increases demand for specialized psychiatric scientists. However, competition remains moderate since candidates must hold advanced degrees with niche expertise in neuroscience or genetics, balancing demand with a selective hiring process.
While an MD or PhD is essential, additional certifications in clinical research compliance, neuroimaging techniques, or psychiatric genetics can significantly boost candidacy. Familiarity with California’s healthcare regulations and ethics protocols is also highly valued in this region.
UC Irvine provides a dynamic platform for expanding research portfolios, fostering interdisciplinary collaborations and advancing academic rank. The role encourages publishing, grant acquisition, and mentorship opportunities, making it a springboard for leadership in psychiatric neuroscience.
UC Irvine integrates state-of-the-art imaging and genetic methods within its psychiatry department, encouraging scientists to pioneer translational research. The institutional emphasis on collaboration and cutting-edge technology propels breakthroughs in behavioral health and psychiatric disorders.
UC Irvine offers robust research infrastructure, access to multidisciplinary teams, and competitive academic compensation. Its location in Orange County provides a vibrant clinical environment and proximity to biotech hubs, supporting both research innovation and professional networking.
Daily tasks often include designing experiments, analyzing neuroimaging and genetic data, collaborating with clinical teams, and preparing manuscripts or grant proposals. Engagement in teaching or mentoring junior researchers may also be part of the role, integrating research with academic duties.
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