Research Technical Assistant

California Institute of Technology
vision insurance, parental leave, paid time off, sick time, tuition reimbursement
United States, California, Pasadena
Nov 09, 2024
Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world's brightest minds and most innovative tools to address fundamental scientific questions. We thrive on finding and cultivating talented people who are passionate about what they do. Join us and be a part of the diverse Caltech community. Job Summary The Fianu Lab at Caltech is a team of researchers dedicated to studying gene regulation and genome stability. Our research primarily focuses on in vitro reconstitution and cryo-electron microscopy to explore the molecular machinery that ensures precise gene regulation and the accurate maintenance of the genome. We are seeking a talented and motivated Research Technical Assistant to establish and maintain mammalian and insect tissue cultures in our lab. The successful candidate will be collaborative, contribute to multiple projects, and work closely with researchers to develop protocols for protein expression and purification. This position is perfect for individuals eager to learn in a dynamic and stimulating scientific environment. Essential Job Duties Establish and maintain mammalian and insect tissue cultures. Conduct heterologous protein expression in mammalian and insect hosts. Perform transformations and transfections and manage tissue cultures. Perform basic molecular cloning and generate baculoviruses for protein expression. Purify proteins using AKTA HPLC systems and standardize purification protocols. Assist in biochemical assays and contribute to the cryo-EM sample preparation pipeline. Other duties as assigned. Basic Qualifications Bachelor's degree (preferably in Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular and Cell Biology, or Microbiology) with 1 year of work experience, or an MSc in a related field. Experience with routine mammalian and insect cell culturing and using sterile techniques. Practical knowledge of basic molecular biology techniques (e.g., nucleic acid extraction, PCR, molecular cloning). Strong organizational and recordkeeping skills. Excellent communication skills. Preferred Qualifications Experience with mammalian and insect tissue culture. Experience in protein purification using AKTA HPLC systems. Required Documents Resume Hiring Range $18.50 - $24.75 Per Hour The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty and training. As one of the largest employers in Pasadena, CA, Caltech is committed to providing comprehensive benefits to eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Our benefits package includes competitive compensation, health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings plans, generous paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick time, parental leave, bereavement, etc.), tuition reimbursement, and more. Non-benefit eligible employees will have access to some benefits such as onsite counseling and sick time. Learn more about our benefits and staff perks. EEO Statement We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Caltech is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. To read more Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) go to eeoc_self_print_poster.pdf. Disability Accommodations If you would like to request an accommodation in completing this application, interviewing, or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to Caltech Recruiting at employment@caltech.edu.