As a Lab Technician I, this position will be supporting the laboratory of Laboratory of Dr. Gage) where they will focus on research support related to the characterization of the macroautophagy process in neurons derived from human fibroblasts. It is expected that the lab technician selected for this position will assist in maintaining and expanding cell lines, fixing cells for Immunofluorescence assays, and acquiring and analyzing images through confocal microscopy. Occasional molecular biology techniques related to RNA extraction, qPCR, and maxiprep will be performed.

The Lab Technician will work closely alongside a grad student in the Gage lab, who will provide direct supervision. The role involves receiving comprehensive training in various research techniques to offer valuable research support. The Lab Technician will be responsible for conducting experiments designed by Ravi and ensuring precise execution, documentation, and organization of experimental procedures and outcomes

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

• Tissue culture. Assist in the media preparation, maintenance, and expansion of human fibroblast and HEK293T cells.
• Assist with directly reprogramming human fibroblasts into neurons, following the procedures established in the lab. Including media preparation and coating dishes. Maintain detailed records and control of the cell lines in culture.
• Fixing cells and staining for immunofluorescence, collecting, and analyzing images using confocal microscopy. Complete the training provided by the biophotonics core in SALK is required.
• Maxiprep, RNA extraction and qPCR will be performed occasionally under the guidance of Elisa Gorostieta.
• Record experimental data accurately and maintain detailed laboratory records.
• Adhere to all safety protocols and guidelines to ensure a safe working environment.
• Follow laboratory policies and procedures, including proper handling and disposal of hazardous materials.
• Participate in safety training and maintain awareness of potential risks in the laboratory
• Performs other related duties as assigned by management.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• This job has no supervisory responsibilities.

What we Require

• No professional experience is required.
• High school diploma or general education degree (GED), or one to three months related experience and/or training, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Other skills (Preferred):
  • Prior experience or internships in a laboratory setting.
  • Prior experience with tissue culture gained for work experience.
  • Experience with confocal imaging and imaging analysis, and knowledge of immunofluorescence and microscopy techniques.
  • Proficient in the operation of standard lab equipment and computer hardware/software relevant to the position and institute.

What We Can Offer

The expected pay range for this position is $ 16.85 to $17.00 hourly.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.

Benefits

Salk Institute offers competitivebenefits, 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.