Salk Institute for Biological Studies Hiring for Research Assistant I – Plant Biology, Dr Lena Mueller at La Jolla, CA Full Time

As a Research Assistant I, this position will be supporting the laboratory of Dr. Mueller. The successful candidate will focus on research support related to beneficial plant-microbe interactions, plant molecular biology, and plant physiology, maintaining plant lines, processing samples, and performing various molecular biology techniques under the direct supervision of https://www.salk.edu/scientist/lena-mueller/ The position will be trained in specific techniques and methods in order to execute experiments designed by https://www.salk.edu/scientist/lena-mueller/.

The research Assistant will be expected to carry out, document, organize, and present experimental results to the research team under close supervision. The candidate must be willing to with plants, fungi, bacteria, and recombinant DNA.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Works on problems of moderate scope in which analysis of situation or data requires the review of identifiable factors.
• Exercises judgment within defined procedures and practices to determine appropriate action.
• Normally receives general instruction on routine work, and detailed instructions on new assignments.
• Conduct molecular biology and plant biology procedures, including:
  • Molecular cloning, genotyping, DNA/RNA extraction, PCR
  • Plant and fungus staining and advanced microscopy techniques
  • Maintenance of laboratory plants and seed stocks
• Managing the inventory of laboratory supplies.
• Ensuring proper upkeep of laboratory equipment such as shakers, PCR machines, and microscopes.
• Participating in staff meetings and contributing to general problem-solving.
• Preserving a clean and organized environment within the laboratory area.
• Work is performed under direct supervision.
• Performs other related duties as assigned by management.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• This job has no supervisory responsibilities.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• No professional experience required.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences or related scientific discipline required. A minimum of 2 years of experience in a scientific role is required for consideration of a Bachelor’s degree in a different discipline.
• Computer skills required: Microsoft Office
• Other skills (preferred):
  • Prior experience or internships in a laboratory setting.
  • Prior experience with molecular biology, which may be gained from coursework and/or work experience.
  • Basic knowledge of laboratory procedures and safety practices.
  • Familiarity with specific laboratory techniques or equipment relevant to the Institute’s operations.
  • Knowledge of relevant regulations and compliance standards.

SALK VALUES:

• Integrity – Guides our moral compass and underpins our every action. We do what is right in all situations for no other reason than because it is right. We uphold honesty and ethical behavior and make good on our commitments. We understand that words and deeds matter and that integrity leads to trust.
• Community – Enables us to harness the power of our collective talents. We work together towards common goals. We recognize the importance of diversity where everyone’s ideas, identities, backgrounds, and perspectives are valued and pave the paths that propel us forward. We understand our pioneering role in the broader scientific community and take pride in our efforts to have a positive impact on the world.
• Accountability – Keeps us focused and keeps us honest. We are responsible not only for our own success but the success of our teams and the entire Institute. We consider how the actions we take and the decisions we make in our own work may impact others.
• Respect – Creates the foundation of trust and brings out the best in us all. We value the experiences, identities, and feelings of those we work with, regardless of their position or their relationship to us. We provide feedback in a constructive manner, use appropriate language, and allow others to share their thoughts and ideas without fear of ridicule.
• Empowerment – Amplifies all voices and inspires the pursuit of greatness. We lift each other up, enabling us to grow continuously and live to our fullest potential. We support the expression of ideas, encourage self-advocacy, inspire confidence, and recognize that an environment of mutual respect is critical to our collective success.

COMPETENCIES:

• Cost Consciousness – Works within approved budget; Develops and implements cost saving measures; Contributes to profits and revenue; Conserves organizational resources.
• Judgement – Displays willingness to make decisions; Exhibits sound and accurate judgment; Supports and explains reasoning for decisions; Includes appropriate people in decision-making process; Makes timely decisions.
• Leadership – Exhibits confidence in self and others; Inspires and motivates others to perform well; Effectively influences actions and opinions of others; Accepts feedback from others; Gives appropriate recognition to others.
• Oral Communication – Speaks clearly and persuasively in positive or negative situations; Listens and gets clarification; Responds well to questions; Demonstrates group presentation skills; Participates in meetings.
• Organizational Support – Follows policies and procedures; Completes administrative tasks correctly and on time; Supports organization’s goals and values; Benefits organization through outside activities; Supports affirmative action and respects diversity.
• Planning/Organizing – Prioritizes and plans work activities; Uses time efficiently; Plans for additional resources; Sets goals and objectives; Organizes or schedules other people and their tasks; Develops realistic action plans.
• Problem Solving – Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; Gathers and analyzes information skillfully; Develops alternative solutions; Works well in group problem solving situations; Uses reason even when dealing with emotional topics.
• Written Communication – Writes clearly and informatively; Edits work for spelling and grammar; Varies writing style to meet needs; Presents numerical data effectively; Able to read and interpret written information.
• Quality – Demonstrates accuracy and thoroughness; Looks for ways to improve and promote quality; Applies feedback to improve performance; Monitors own work to ensure quality.

The expected pay range for this position is $18.03 to $22.00 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 DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Frequently required to stand.
• Occasionally required to walk.
• Frequently required to sit.
• Continually required to utilize hand and finger dexterity.
• Occasionally required to climb, balance, bend, stoop, kneel or crawl.
• Frequently required to talk or hear.
• Occasionally required to taste or smell.
• Occasionally work around fumes, airborne particles, or toxic chemicals
• Occasionally exposure to extreme heat or cold (non-weather)
• Occasionally exposure to bloodborne and airborne pathogens or infectious materials
• While performing the duties of this job, the noise level in the work environment is usually quiet.
• The employee must occasionally lift and /or move more than 25 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include Close vision; Distance vision; Depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities, or physical requirements.  Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. All individuals who accept a position with the Salk Institute must be willing to work in an animal-related research environment, must successfully complete the Institute’s background investigation and must be willing to sign a confidentiality agreement.

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.