Salk Institute for Biological Studies Hiring for Lab Technician I, Laboratory of Dr Ecker at La Jolla, CA Full Time

Under close supervision, position will perform tasks and experiments in support of academic research projects. Position will be part of plant research group studying the genes involved in Arabidopsis root growth.  Responsibilities may include: preparing media plates, overseeing plating of seeds by a robot and/or plating seeds, scanning media plates on flatbed scanner, simple data analysis, watering plants, and general lab maintenance.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

(100%) Research and Lab Support

• Prepares media and media plates

• Oversees proper operation of automated plating system
• Run PCR and purify PCR product
• Waters, stakes, and harvests plants in growth chambers
• Extract genomic DNA
• Assists with scanning plates on flatbed scanner
• Troubleshoots various steps of the experiment
• Monitors plants including watering and seeding
• Facilitates the transfer of seedlings to media plates for experimental assay
• Performs general lab cleanliness and maintenance

EXPERIENCE

 Required:

•  No Experience Required

 Preferred:

• Experience in a laboratory setting

EDUCATION

Required

•  High School Diploma or equivalent work experience

 Preferred

•  Undergraduate coursework in biological sciences or related field or equivalent combination of education and experience.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Required

• Punctual, meticulous and rigorous in completing an assigned task. 

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Required:

• Understands operation of basic lab equipment.
• Ability to perform routine, repetitive functions.
• After initial instruction, ability to follow directions and perform repetitive tasks.
• Ability to communicate required information and keep accurate records of work performed.
• Proven ability to work both independently and also as part of a collaborative team.
• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written.
• Strong interpersonal skills, including tact, diplomacy, and flexibility.
• Demonstrated ability to interact effectively with diverse groups. Demonstrated skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with personnel at all levels.
• Strong attention to detail

Preferred:

• N/A

SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

• Must be willing to work an adjusted schedule to support research needs.
• Successful completion of the Institute’s background investigation.

The expected pay range for this position is $16.30 – $17.00 per hour.
Salk Institute provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of what the institute reasonably expects to pay for a position. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location, and external market pay for comparable jobs.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/MENTAL ACTIVITIES/ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

The incumbent in this position will be constantly carrying over 50 lbs, handling, seeing, and talking.

The Salk Institute is an internationally renowned research institution that values diversity, equity, and inclusion. We seek bold and interactive leaders passionate about exploring new frontiers in science. Our collaborative community embraces diverse perspectives and unique life experiences, fostering innovation, and a sense of belonging. Together, we strive to improve the wellbeing of humanity through groundbreaking research.