POSITION SUMMARY

Research Assistant II position will focus on cell and molecular biology of cultured cells and organoids. A successful candidate will work half of their time on independent projects and the other half on supporting postdoctoral researchers in the lab. The position will be responsible for establishing and utilizing cell-based assays for evaluating the function of candidate genes, pharmacological agents, or secreted molecules and performing molecular biological experiments to characterize the mode of action. Position will be trained in specific techniques and methods in order to execute experiments that are broadly designed by post doc or PI and must be able to carry out and analyze experimental results independently. The overall goal of the research is to understand the molecular and biochemical function of circadian clock components and interacting genes.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

(50%) Tissue Culture

• Independently maintains cultures of human and mouse cells as well as manages and differentiates cell lines.
• Set up and optimize cell-based assays in 96- nd 384 well plates and carry out functional genomics or compound screens.
• Follow up on mode of action of compounds or genes by additional imaging and functional assays on cells.

(25%) Molecular Biology Techniques

• Perform various techniques in molecular biology such as: RNA extraction and analysis.
• Protein extraction and analysis.
• PCR and rtPCR.
• RNA-seq library preps.
• Gel Electrophoresis.
• Recombinant DNA techniques.

(10%) Histology

• Perform various immunofluorescence or FISH protocols on fixed cells.
• Analyze cells using various fluorescent and confocal microscopes for high power imaging.

(15%) Lab Support

• Performs quality control of reagents as needed.
• Trains and assists other lab personnel on research techniques and use of laboratory equipment.
• Attends staff meetings and assist with general problem solving.
• Assists in Hazardous, Biohazardous and waste disposal.
• Assists with maintaining laboratory safety records.
• Maintains laboratory supplies and equipment.

EXPERIENCE

Required

• Minimum 2 years' experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Preferred

• Minimum 4 years' experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.

EDUCATION

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences or related scientific discipline required. Bachelor's degrees in a different discipline and a minimum of 4 years of experience in a scientific role will be considered in lieu.

Preferred

• Master's degree in biological sciences or related field.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Required

• Theoretical and hands-on knowledge of cell culture, high throughput assays, histology and molecular biology techniques.
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience in researching information and analyzing data to arrive at valid conclusions.
• Ability to manage and track large numbers of samples meticulously without mixup or cross contamination.
• Skill in the operation and maintenance of various lab equipment.
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience with both PC and MAC operating systems, standard business office equipment and commonly used software and tools, such as Microsoft Office, electronic mail, and the internet.
• Proficiency with common office software applications as well as software applications used for research, recording, and analysis.
• Highly organized, effective at multitasking, adept at juggling changing priorities and able to prioritize.
• 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.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

• Must be willing to work in an animal-related research environment.
• Must be willing to work with human cells and complete all appropriate associated training.
• Must be willing to work independently and must have a flexible schedule to support research needs.
• Successful completion of the Institute's background investigation.
• Must be willing to sign a confidentiality agreement.

The expected pay range for this position is $21.25 - $25.00 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

This position requires constant adjusting focus, seeing, sitting, and working inside.

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.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The Salk Institute for Biological Studies is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to providing equal access to opportunities for students, employees, applicants for employment and other visitors. Salk has also adopted and maintains a policy to encourage professional and respectful workplace behavior and prevent discriminatory and harassing conduct in our workplace. Accordingly, the Institute prohibits harassment and discrimination in employment on the basis of, and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to, actual or perceived race, color, religion, religious creed (including religious dress and grooming practices), national origin, ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, medical condition (including cancer and genetic characteristics), genetic information, marital status, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, veteran and/or military status (disabled veteran, veteran of the Vietnam era, other covered veteran status), political affiliation, and any other status protected by state or federal law.