Job Summary

The Research Assistant II position is responsible for, with limited instruction for routine work, performing various cell and molecular biology and biochemistry techniques; mouse handling and colony maintenance, minor mouse surgeries, mouse breeding and weaning, genotyping, flow cytometry and cell sorting, single-cell RNA expression analysis in support of the Principal Investigator (PI) and lab research goals. Range of duties include, but is not limited to, data analysis and data base management, maintenance of tissue, DNA, and other experimental samples, assisting with general laboratory maintenance, including equipment maintenance, and ordering of supplies, and training of new personnel. May work on independent projects in addition to supporting postdoctoral researchers in the lab. Carries out and analyzes experimental results with limited instruction.

Who We Are

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.

Founded by Jonas Salk, developer of the first safe and effective polio vaccine, the Institute is an independent, nonprofit research organization and architectural landmark: small by choice, intimate by nature, and fearless in the face of any challenge. Salk's vibrant community comprises a diverse and talented group of individuals, each playing a crucial role in driving our mission forward. From visionary leaders to dedicated administrators and brilliant faculty members, the Institute is united by a shared passion for scientific exploration and innovation.

What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be

• Perform molecular biology, cell biology, chromatin immunoprecipitation and mass-spectrometry techniques.
• Independently perform molecular cell biology and biochemistry techniques which include, but are not limited to, recombinant protein expression and purification, cell signaling assays and cell behavior assays
• Mammalian cell culture, transfections, infections, lysing, thawing and freezing down cells
• Minor mouse surgeries and treatments including oral gavage, i.p., and i.v., injection and retro-orbital isolation of blood or injection.
• Tumor cell implantation and monitoring of growth.
• Perform tumor studies in mice which include, but are not limited to, xenograft of tumor cell lines and injection of oncogenic lentivirus
• Manage and/or perform maintenance of mouse colony including monitoring and measuring of tumors
• Assist with cell maintenance, stock, and organize incoming lab supplies.
• Prepare standard media and solutions.
• Perform weekly inventory, clean glassware and equipment as needed.
• Assist in Hazardous and Biohazardous waste disposal.
• Assist in maintaining laboratory safety records, attend staff meetings.
• Performs other related duties as assigned by management

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• This job has no supervisory responsibilities.

What we Require

• Bachelor’s degree in biological sciences, or related field
• Minimum of 2 years of related experience and/or training in a laboratory environment.
• Computer skills required: Microsoft Office

Preferred

• Master’s degree in biological sciences or related fields

What We Can Offer

The expected pay range for this position is $21.15-$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, department budget availability, internal equity, geographic location, and external market pay for comparable jobs.

Benefits

Salk Institute offers competitive benefits, including medical, dental, vision, retirement, paid time off, tuition reimbursement, patient advocacy services, and transit/parking program.

Salk Values

The Salk Community, both scientists and administrators, worked together to define values that we believe support Salk’s pursuit of excellence. To be truly the best scientific institution requires not only incredible discoveries, but a common understanding of how we should work together to enable those discoveries.

The acronym “I CARE” provides a simple way to remember each of the values and reminds each of us of the importance of what we do each day.

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.