Research Assistant I - Laboratory of Genetics, Dr. Dmitry Lyumkis

The Research Assistant I is responsible for research support and some lab management duties in support of the Principal Investigator’s (PI) studies along with duties involving molecular biology, biochemistry, protein production, purification. Duties include performing basic molecular biology and biochemical experiments for protein production, purification, and for biochemical assays in support of research projects, assisting the postdoctoral associates with experimental design and direction, supervising and assisting with training of junior lab staff (junior technicians, students and volunteers), as necessary. Incumbent is also responsible for assisting with general laboratory duties, equipment upkeep and repair, ensuring compliance with all Salk policies, and working with collaborators to achieve specific research goals.

Works on problems in which analysis of situations or data requires an in-depth evaluation of various factors.  Exercises judgement within broadly defined practices and policies in selecting methods, techniques, and evaluation criteria for obtaining results.  May determine methods and procedures on new assignments.  May provide supervision, training and guidance to lower-level personnel.  Work is done under periodic supervision.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• General protein production and purification for several projects
• Works with the E. coli systems for protein production. Utilize different expression protocols to produce proteins.
• Performs various techniques in molecular biology such as: DNA extraction and analysis, western blotting, PCR, gel electrophoresis, cloning, etc.
• Uses a variety of equipment for protein purification, including the Akta FPLC, a gradient station, and preparatory cell.
• Employs different purification protocols, including for size exclusion chromatography, ion exchange chromatography, affinity purification, gradients, and others as per research demands.
• Performs biochemical binding assays, activity assays, evaluating formation of protein complexes.
• Presents data at sub-group and at group meetings, and presents research papers in journal clubs.
• Writes laboratory protocols for experiments and ensures their compliance within the laboratory.
• Assists with stocking, ordering, maintaining, and keeping track of resources, chemicals, and supplies; assists with maintaining inventory.
• Assists with performing regular maintenance and calibration of equipment; ensuring equipment is operational; assists with instrument repairs when necessary.
• Assists with cleanups.
• Trains incoming or lower-level staff, as appropriate
• Communicates with vendors and Salk personnel, operational and procedural.
• Trains staff on specific molecular biology and related techniques. Trains laboratory personnel in proper use of laboratory equipment and equipment maintenance and assists in hiring process of new staff.
• Maintains logbooks for major equipment (e.g. FPLC).
• Performs other duties as assigned by management.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• This job has no supervisory responsibilities.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• No professional experience 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: (Select all applicable): Accounting Software; Contract Management Systems; Development Software; Human Resource Systems; Inventory Software; Microsoft Office; Payroll Systems; Project Management Software)
• Other skills (preferred):
  • Prior experience or internships in a laboratory setting.
  • Prior experience with histology, which may be gained from coursework and/or work experience.
  • Basic knowledge of laboratory procedures and safety practices.
  • Familiarity with specific laboratory techniques or equipment relevant to the Institute’s operations.
  • Knowledge of relevant regulations and compliance standards.
  • Specific interests and advanced skills in biochemical methods

SALK VALUES:

• Integrity - Guides our moral compass and underpins our every action. We do what is right in all situations for no other reason than because it is right. We uphold honesty and ethical behavior and make good on our commitments. We understand that words and deeds matter and that integrity leads to trust.
• Community - Enables us to harness the power of our collective talents. We work together towards common goals. We recognize the importance of diversity where everyone’s ideas, identities, backgrounds, and perspectiv