Research Assistant I - Laboratory of Dr. Wolfgang Busch

The Research Assistant I will play a critical operational role in supporting activities within the Harnessing Plants Initiative. Primary responsibilities include plant cultivation, transformation, tissue harvesting, experimental execution, data collection, phenotyping, and analysis across a range of plant species. The role also involves sample preparation and general experimental support, including standard procedures in molecular biology, biochemistry, and plant biology.

The Research Assistant I will work closely with scientists in the laboratory to support ongoing research efforts within the Harnessing Plants Initiative.

This position requires strong experimental skills, including sterile technique, molecular cloning, DNA and RNA preparation, gel electrophoresis, genotyping, PCR, root sectioning and microscopy. It requires careful attention to detail and the ability to effectively balance research support responsibilities within a collaborative scientific environment.

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

• Perform duties to support experiments on a variety of plant species, including planting, growth, maintenance, transformation, harvest, genotyping, and other required analyses
• Grow plants from seed and provide routine plant care, including soil and media preparation, watering, fertilization, weeding, and harvesting
• Assist in harvesting and preparing plant tissue for downstream analyses
• Conduct analyses such as plant observations, microscopy, nucleic acid extractions, genotyping , expression analysis, etc.
• Support seed stock organization, tracking, and storage
• Participate in experiments, including maintaining experimental processes, data collection, data input, data analysis, and adherence to protocols
• Assist with ordering supplies, inventory management, and general laboratory organization
• Accurately follow written and verbal instructions and protocols
• Make and document detailed observations and exercise sound judgement in task execution
• Communicate effectively with staff at all levels and across teams
• 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. 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: Microsoft Office
• Fundamental skills in molecular biology and plant and or/fungal biology
• Other skills (preferred):
• Hairy root culture experience
• Plant transformation experience 

What We Can Offer 

The expected pay range for this position is $18.00-$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