Research Assistant I - Laboratory of Dr. Aga Kendrick
Salk Institute for Biological Studies

Research Assistant I will work as a part of a team that studies how cytoskeletal motor protein complexes are regulated using biochemical and cell biology approaches. Duties will involve performing various molecular biology, and biochemistry techniques. The candidate will use established protocols to work with different cellular systems to perform protein purifications, fluorescence microscopy, and sample preparation for cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) studies. The candidate will also assist other lab members with experimental design and lab organization.

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 experiments, including PCR, transformations, plasmid preparations, and gel electrophoresis.
• Perform biochemistry experiments, including protein expression and purification, western blotting, and protein-protein binding assays.
• Cultivate and maintain insect and mammalian cell lines under sterile conditions.
• Prepare and characterize cells for downstream applications, such as transfection, transduction, and fluorescence microscopy.
• Maintain lab materials, including plasmid DNA, DNA, virus stocks, etc..
• Help prepare samples for cryo-EM studies.
• Contribute to experimental design and data interpretation.
• Perform lab support tasks including but not limited to stocking, ordering, maintaining, and keeping track of resources, chemicals, and supplies; assisting with maintaining inventory, as well as assisting with performing regular maintenance and calibration of equipment; ensuring equipment is operational; assisting with instrument repairs when necessary.
• Train staff on specific cell biology and related techniques, as well as laboratory equipment and equipment maintenance.
• Assist in the hiring process of new staff.
• Write laboratory protocols for experiments and ensure their compliance within the laboratory.
• Perform other related duties as assigned by management

What we Require

• No professional experience required.
• Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences or related scientific discipline required.
• Experience Preferred:
  • 1-2 years of experience in a lab with a biochemistry or molecular biology background.
  • Experience with protein expression and/or purification.
  • Experience with basic cryo-EM sample preparation. 

What We Can Offer

The expected pay range for this position is $18.03-$21.00 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 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.