Research Assistant I - Laboratory of Dr. Rusty Gage

Job Summary

As a Research Assistant I, this position will be supporting the where they will focus on research support primarily centered around in vivo rodent experiments, histology, and image analysis. This position will be responsible for conducting drug dosing, assessing animal behavior, and collecting brain tissue samples. The position will also be responsible for performing standard immunohistochemistry techniques and obtaining and analyzing confocal images. Position will also assist with implementation of novel spatial transcriptomics methods, all under the direct supervision of a Staff Scientist. Position will be trained in specific techniques and methods in order to execute experiments designed by Staff Scientist. Research Assistant will be expected to carry out, document, organize, and present experimental results to the research team under close supervision. Research Assistant will also be responsible for equipment maintenance and training within the lab's histology area. Candidate must be willing to work with rodents (mice), common viral vectors (AAV, lentivirus, or retrovirus), and biological materials derived from these sources.

This position supports the Gage lab's project investigating the role of individual hippocampal neurons in memory formation and memory discrimination.

Who We Are

The Salk Institute is an internationally renowned research institution that values . 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 to dedicated and brilliant , the Institute is united by a shared passion for scientific exploration and innovation.

What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be

• Perform cryo-sectioning, immunostaining, and fluorescent imaging on mouse brain samples
• Perform genotyping for maintenance of a transgenic mouse colony
• Conduct animal behavior experiments, including mouse handling, drug dosing by a variety of routes, and behavioral analysis
• Collect tissues from experimental animals
• Maintain equipment and train new users on basic procedures within lab histology area
• Perform lab support duties which may include preparing standard solutions, stocking/organizing lab supplies, attending staff meetings, assisting in hazardous/biohazardous waste disposal, and maintaining laboratory safety records.
• Keep detailed and complete experimental records
• Work on problems of moderate scope in which analysis of situation or data requires the review of identifiable factors.
• Exercise judgment within defined procedures and practices to determine appropriate action.
• Work is performed under direct supervision.
• Performs other related duties as assigned by management.

What we Require

• No professional experience required.
• Education: Bachelor's degree in Neuroscience, 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.
• Other skills (preferred):
  
  
  
  • 1-2 years' experience in a laboratory setting.
  • Demonstrated experience in mouse handling and tissue collection
  • Demonstrated experience with confocal imaging and imaging analysis, and knowledge of histology and microscopy techniques.
  • Knowledge of molecular biology and animal behavior, which may be gained from coursework and/or work experience.
  • Proficient in the operation of standard lab equipment and computer hardware/software relevant to the position and institute.
  
  
  
  

What We Can Offer

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

Benefits

Salk Institute offers competitive, 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 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.