Research Assistant I - Laboratory of Dr. Margarita Behrens

SUMMARY:

The Research Assistant I will carry out a variety of basic and specialized molecular biology techniques in support of the lab goals. Duties include brain slicing and dissection, nuclei production and sorting for multiomics analysis, protein biochemistry and image analysis.  In this role, 75% of the time will be spent on funded projects and the rest on support doctoral researchers in the lab. In addition, the Research Assistant will be responsible for establishing conditions for spatial transcriptomics using MERFISH.  The position is subject to training in brain slicing, nuclei production and sorting, neuronal imaging and analysis, and in specific techniques and methods in order to execute experiments that are broadly designed by the PI or postdoctoral researchers.  The expectation for the Research Assistant I is to grow into an independent scientist with the ability to carry out and analyze experimental results with limited instruction for routine work.  The overall goal of the research is to use epigenomics to create an atlas of the human brain at single-cell resolution.

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

• Independently maintains cultures of neuronal/glial cells obtained from differentiation of embryonic neural precursors.
• Perform various techniques in molecular biology such as: RNA extraction and analysis.
• DNA extraction and analysis, Maxi preps, and PCR and rtPCR.
• Gel Electrophoresis, and Recombinant DNA techniques.
• lmmunoprecipitation for mass spectrometry
• Perform cryostat sectioning for spatial transcriptomics
• Perform various staining protocols on fixed brain tissue.
• Analyze cells/spines using various fluorescent and confocal microscopes for high power imaging.
• Independently slices and dissects brain tissue and prepares cellular nuclei.
• Performs quality control of reagents as needed.
• Trains and assist other lab personnel with specific research techniques and use of laboratory equipment.
• Attend staff meetings and assist with general problem solving.
• Assists in Hazardous, Biohazardous and waste disposal.
• Maintains laboratory supplies and equipment, maintains lab safety records
• Perform other duties as assigned.

What we Require

• No professional experience is required.
• Education: Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences or related scientific discipline required. A minimum of 2 years of experience in a scientific role is required for consideration of a Bachelor's degree in a different discipline.
• Computer skills required: Inventory Software; Microsoft Office
• Other skills (preferred):
  • Prior experience or internships in a laboratory setting.

The expected pay range for this position is $18.03 to $21.00 per hour. 

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.  

What We Can Offer

The expecte