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Research Associate I - Hansen Lab

Buck Institute for Research on Aging
Novato, CA Full Time
POSTED ON 4/14/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 10/10/2026
Position Summary

The Hansen Laboratory at the Buck Institute invites applications for a Research Associate I (RA I) to support research projects focused on understanding how autophagy, a fundamental cellular recycling process, is regulated during aging.

Our lab uses the nematode C. elegans, mammalian cell culture systems, and a combination of biochemical, imaging, and genetic approaches to study the biology of aging. This is an excellent opportunity for an early-career scientist who is excited to contribute to a collaborative research environment and build strong laboratory skills in an academic setting.

The RA I will provide laboratory and operational support for ongoing projects, maintain organized records and inventories, and assist with routine experimental procedures. The successful candidate will be highly motivated, detail-oriented, and able to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.

This is an on-site position. Schedule flexibility may be required, including occasional weekend work, to support research needs.

Key Responsibilities

  • Prepare reagents, including agar plates, bacterial cultures, and C. elegans cultures; maintain worm stocks
  • Perform established laboratory protocols and techniques to support ongoing scientific projects
  • Maintain laboratory facilities, supplies, and equipment
  • Assist investigators and other lab members with experimental work
  • Enter data and manage inventories
  • Maintain laboratory compliance records, including chemical and radiation safety records, as applicable.
  • Participate in project planning meetings and other lab communications.
  • Assist in preparing and updating laboratory protocols
  • Maintain accurate and complete experimental records in laboratory notebooks
  • Assist with data collection, basic analysis, and interpretation of experimental results
  • Assist in preparing research summaries, reports, and other scientific materials
  • Read and discuss assigned research articles
  • May present research findings orally, as appropriate
  • May support independent research assignments once trained
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications

  • BA/BS in Biology, Cell Biology, or a related field
  • Previous laboratory experience in genetics or molecular biology is required
  • Strong foundation in basic scientific theory.
  • Strong motivation to perform research
  • Excellent technical and problem-solving ability
  • High level of accuracy and attention to detail
  • Ability to work collaboratively under general supervision and independently when appropriate
  • Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience working with C. elegans.
  • Database management and computation experience.
  • Prior work experience, in a related or unrelated field

Compensation and Benefits

  • The salary range for this position is $52,000 to $65,000 annually. Final compensation will be based on qualifications, experience, skills, and internal equity
  • Employees are eligible for Buck Institute benefits programs, including medical/dental/vision, 401(k) retirement plan with 5% employer match, tuition reimbursement, paid time off and holidays, paid sick and parental leave, employee assistance, and mental wellness programs

About the Buck

Our success will ultimately change healthcare. At the Buck, we aim to end the threat of age-related diseases for this and future generations by bringing together the most capable and passionate scientists from a broad range of disciplines to identify and impede the ways in which we age. Globally recognized as the pioneer and leader in efforts to target aging—the number one risk factor for diseases including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, cancer, macular degeneration, heart disease, and diabetes—the Buck seeks to help people live better longer.

We are an equal opportunity employer and strive to create an atmosphere where diversity of identity, experience, and background is welcomed, valued, and supported. Candidates who contribute to this diversity are strongly encouraged to apply.

To Apply

Interested candidates should complete the online application and upload both their CV and a document that includes a brief statement of their interests, plus the names/contact information of 2 references.

Salary : $52,000 - $65,000

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