Research Assistant III - Laboratory of Dr. Rusty Gage

As a Research Assistant III, this position will serve several projects working with multiple post docs and staff scientists to examine genetic integrity during aging and disease, as well as serving as the lab manager, overseeing day-to-day operations and ensuring efficient functioning of the lab. The successful candidate will possess advanced proficiency in molecular biology techniques and will play a key role in performing complex DNA sequencing tasks as well as a broad range of other molecular biology assays. This position will require substantial independence in experimental design, planning, and execution, while working closely with postdocs and staff scientists.

This role encompasses lab management responsibilities such as compliance with and updating IRB, ESCRO, and IBC protocols. Attendance in weekly leadership team meetings with Dr. Gage and other staff. Maintaining inventory of all lab materials including plasmid DNA, DNA, chemical inventory list, and freezer/fridge contents, upkeep and repair of equipment, and adherence and compliance to all safety and Salk policies.

Working with collaborators (both on and off site) to achieve specific research goals, complete MTA's. Manage scientific and personnel management issues (hiring new staff, supervising, training, and mentoring interns, lab techs and research assistants), as appropriate or delegated by the PI.

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:

• Independently maintain and culture various human cells lines and cellular reprogramming and differentiation of fibroblasts, embryonic stem cell, iPSC, Neurons(iN's), astrocytes, microglia.
• Generates novel 3D brain organoid models.
• FACS Sorting

Molecular Biology:

• DNA/RNA/protein extraction from cells and tissues.
• PCR and qPCR, and DNA Library construction
• Agarose gel electrophoresis and analysis of DNA/RNA/protein.
• Molecular cloning, including restriction enzyme digestion, ligation, amplification, and purification of plasmid DNA vectors (Mini and Maxi preps).
• Performs histology protocols of fixing and section tissues, immunofluorescence staining and microscopy.
• Keep detailed lab notebook records and collect, analyze, and present data to supervisor on a weekly basis.
• Attends lab meetings, Lab Leadership Team meetings, and assists with general problem-solving.

Lab Management:

• Prepare update and maintain compliance with regulatory protocols and update/amend IRB, ESCRO, and IRBs.
• Ensure lab safety, inspections, prompt safety information dissemination, and solutions implementation.
• Manage lab space, maintenance, and organization, and initiate routine cleanups by lab personnel.
• Ensure equipment is operational, develop SOPs, and maintain equipment logs. Contact vendors for routine preventative maintenance and repairs
• The primary administrative contact for PPMS- core booking to assign funding sources and approve invoices
• Manage orders, assist with lab budget, and funding coordination with PI and administrative management.
• Receive, distribute, and store items from vendors and collaborators.
• Coordinate sample distribution, and initiate material transfer agreements.
• Oversee freezer/supply inventories, and annual equipment inventory.
• Assist in hiring, welcoming new personnel, and providing access to training and resources.
• Engages in troubleshooting and problem solving
• Performs other related duties as assigned by management.

What we Require

• Minimum 4 years' experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience required.
• Education; Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences or related scientific discipline required. A minimum of 6 years of experience in a scientific role is required for consideration of a bachelor's degree in a different discipline.
• Computer skills required: (Select all applicable): Inventory Software, Microsoft Office, Adobe; Matlab, Prism,
• Other skills (preferred):
  
  
  
  • Advanced experience with molecular biology and/or biochemistry techniques.
  • Previous experience with laboratory management and organization.
  
  
  
  

What We Can Offer

The expected pay range for this position is $68,640 to $75,000 per annum. 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 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.