Salk Institute for Biological Studies Hiring for Research Assistant I – Clayton Foundation Laboratories for Peptide Biology, Dr Kuo-Fen Lee at La Jolla, CA Full Time

The Research Assistant I position is responsible for assisting with research in genetics and diseases of the nervous system. Candidate receives general instruction on routine work, detailed instructions on new assignments. Work is performed under direct supervision. Entry-level position.

Working as part of a team, candidate will assist in the procurement, maintenance, and analysis of mouse models of Alzheimer’s disease. This includes but not limited to animal husbandry, colony management, PCR, DNA and RNA extractions and perfusions, tissue collection, histology, immunohistochemistry, confocal imaging, and presentation of results in a group meeting. The candidate will learn techniques required to collect, slice, and dissect fresh brain tissue for experimental samples. Position requires detailed reporting of research and experiments and delivery of these reports in written and verbal forms.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

(70%) The Research Assistant I position is responsible for assisting with research in genetics and diseases of the nervous system.

• Main focus is to collect and slice brain tissue for aging and Alzheimer’s Disease using mouse models.

• Collects and prepares mouse DNA tissue samples for analysis.
• Assists with management of mice colony.
• Learns to collect and slice fresh mouse and marmoset brain tissue
• Performs histology and immunohistochemistry on brain tissue
• Learns and performs confocal imaging

(30%) Lab Maintenance

• Assist technicians and post-docs with experiments as needed.
• Orders, stocks and organize incoming lab supplies as needed.
• Attends staff meetings and assists with general problem-solving.
• Assists in writing of laboratory protocols for experiments.
• Assists in Hazardous, Biohazards, and chemical waste disposal.
• Assists in maintaining laboratory safety records.
• Coordinates with vendors for problems regarding orders.

EXPERIENCE

Required:

• No professional experience required with relevant degree.

Preferred:

• 0-2 years’ experience
• Theoretical knowledge of biological sciences (particularly cell and molecular biology and genetics). Demonstrates strong problem-solving skills and creativity
• Able to perform routine, repetitive functions.
• Ability to learn and apply standard laboratory and safety procedures.
• Organized and effective at multitasking and adept at juggling changing priorities.
• Demonstrates ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Demonstrates basic professional skills with attendance, dependability, and communication.
• Strong communication skills (both verbal and written) needed to interact professionally and effectively in the work environment; ability to read, comprehend, and discuss research materials.
• Skills utilizing sound judgment, tact and a recognition of situations requiring confidentiality.
• Ability to diplomatically and professionally interact with all levels of Institute staff and external contacts.
• Knowledge of standard laboratory and safety procedures
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience with PC and MAC operating systems, standard business office equipment and commonly used software and tools, such as Microsoft Office, electronic mail, and the internet.

EDUCATION 

Required 

• Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences or related scientific discipline required. Bachelor’s degrees in a different discipline and a minimum of 2 years of experience in a scientific role will be considered in lieu.

Preferred

• No preferred education is necessary for this position.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

• Must be willing to work in an animal-related research environment.
• Must be willing to work an adjusted schedule to support research needs.
• Successful completion of the Institute’s background investigation.
• Must meet minimum Salk age requirements for working in a research lab.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/MENTAL ACTIVITIES/ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

The incumbent in this position will be constantly seeing and working indoors.

The salary range for this position is $18.02 – $23.91 an hour