Core Sr Research Assistant (Temporary)

The Cell Technologies and Engineering Core Research Assistant will work on problems of diverse scope related to the use of human stem cells and derivation of somatic cell populations for disease modeling applications. This position will primarily support human cell modeling needs associated with multiple research centers on campus, including centers focused on novel cell modeling approaches for aging and Alzheimer’s disease. The Senior Research Assistant will exercise judgement within generally defined practices and policies in selecting methods and techniques for obtaining solutions. Normally receives general instructions on routine work and new assignments. Work is performed under general supervision.

The expected duration for this position is up to 3 months; however, employment is at-will, and the duration may change based on business needs.

Who We Are

The Salk Institute is an internationally renowned research institution that values all members of our scientific community. We seek bold and interactive leaders passionate about exploring new frontiers in science. Our collaborative community embraces perspectives across discipline, professional acumen, 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 has many talented individuals from varied backgrounds, 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

• Cell Culture Techniques - Cultures various human cells lines, such as primary dermal fibroblasts, embryonic stem cell, induced pluripotent stem cells, as well as other somatic and immortalized human cell populations.
• Molecular and Biochemical Techniques - Performs various molecular biology techniques: DNA/RNA extraction, molecular cloning, restriction enzyme digestion, ligation, amplification and purification of plasmid DNA vectors, PCR, gel electrophoresis, recombinant DNA techniques and vector design
• CRISPR genome editing Techniques- Performs CRISPR gene targeting using various formats (ie, RNP vs plasmid delivery), variations (Prime Editing vs original) and goals. Will contribute to design of guides, delivery method, validation, and genotyping assays.
• Biobanking/recordkeeping- Maintains accurate records of all cells entering and leaving storage, maintains detailed lab notebooks accurately recording all manipulations and treatments to cells and deviations from protocols
• Performs instrument maintenance including regular cleaning and calibration
• Responsible for supply inventory management
• Assist director in cryobanking inventory updates and transition to new system
• Delivers customer service and training
• Performs other related duties as assigned by management.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• This job has no supervisory responsibilities

What we Require

• Bachelor's Degree (BA) in relevant field
• 2 years of relevant experience, or Equivalent combination of education/experience, or one to two years of related experience and/or training, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience in human cell culture research environment
• Experience with standard cell and molecular biology assays
• Experience in CRISPR design and methods
• Experience in growing a variety of cell lines from a single cell
• Experience genotyping and troubleshooting
• Basic light and fluorescence microscopy
• Computer skills required: Microsoft Office, Microscopy imaging and analysis software

What We Can Offer

The expected pay range for this position is $30.00 to $35.00 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 (race is inclusive of traits associated with race, including, but not limited to, hair texture and protective hairstyles. Protective hairstyles include, but not limited to, such hairstyles as braids, and twists), 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), reproductive health decision making, 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.

Discrimination is prohibited with any intersectionality of the above-mentioned characteristics, including:

1. Any combination of characteristics.
2. A perception that the person has any of the characteristics or any combination of those characteristics.
3. A perception that the person is associated with a person who has, or is perceived to have, any of those characteristics or any combination of those characteristics.