Research Assistant I - Laboratory of Dr. Satchidananda Panda
Salk Institute for Biological Studies

Job Summary

The Research Assistant I position is responsible for performing various genetic and molecular biology techniques, fruit fly handling, stock maintenance, behavior assay under different treatments through the aging process in support of the research goals of the Panda lab. Other duties include assisting with general laboratory maintenance. 

Who We Are

The Salk Institute is an internationally renowned research institution that values diversity, equity, and inclusion. 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 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

• Provide fresh food to lab stocks routinely and maintain the stocks at healthy condition
• Carry out fly genotype building experiment with basic genetic techniques to obtain expected genotype
• Provide and remove food from experimental flies according to different feeding schedules
• Conduct different types of fly behavior assays and analyze the data under different treatments
• Dissect tissues and perform molecular and immune-histological analysis
• Fly genotyping
• Assist with preparing standard media and solutions
• Manage fly media inventory
• Performs other related duties as assigned

What we Require

Required:

• No prior experience or training.
• Bachelor's Degree (BA) in bioinformatics, computational biology, computer science, biological sciences, bioengineering, mathematics, statistics, or related discipline
• Computer skills required: Microsoft Office

Preferred:

• Theoretical and hands on knowledge of fly genetics techniques.
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience in researching information and analyzing data to arrive at valid conclusions.
• Ability to conduct experiments reliably and carefully by following the protocol. Learn and carry out new experimental procedures with accuracy and efficiency. Demonstrated ability to follow verbal and/or written protocols, including follow-up on previously begun procedures. Ability to modify existing protocol according to experimental needs.
• Demonstrated ability to record experimental procedure and results accurately and consistently for every experiment performed.
• Skills in the operation and maintenance of various lab equipment.
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience with PC operating systems, standard business office equipment and commonly used software and tools, such as Microsoft Office, electronic mail, and the internet. 

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 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, 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.

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