Research Assistant II - Laboratory of Dr. Rusty Gage

Staff Career • La Jolla, CA

3d • $21 - $25 • Onsite

About The Position

The Research Assistant II will support the Laboratory of Dr. Gage where they will focus on exploring the role of hippocampal neurons in memory under normal, enhanced, or disease-impaired conditions. The research aims to determine how individual cells use gene expression changes to direct the formation, maintenance, and discrimination of memories. The successful candidate will spend about 50% of their time in support of specific experimental goals designated by the Staff Scientist, 25% of their time on independent projects, and 25% of their time on general lab support. Required experimental duties include conducting drug dosing, performing survival surgeries, assessing animal behavior, and collecting brain tissue samples. The Research Assistant will also be responsible for performing standard immunohistochemistry techniques, obtaining and analyzing confocal images, and assisting with implementation of spatial transcriptomics methods. This role involves working with rodents (mice), common viral vectors (AAV, lentivirus, or retrovirus), and biological materials derived from these sources. Lab support duties include equipment maintenance and training within the lab’s histology area. The Research Assistant will work closely alongside a Staff Scientist who will provide direct supervision. The role involves receiving comprehensive training in various research techniques to offer valuable research support. The Research Assistant will be responsible for conducting experiments designed by the Staff Scientist and ensuring precise execution, analysis, documentation, and organization of experimental procedures and outcomes. 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.

Requirements

• Minimum 2 years experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience required.
• Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences or related scientific discipline required.
• A minimum of 4 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 Suite.

Nice To Haves

• Computer skills preferred: Prism, R, Flowjo, Zen, Any-Maze, Ethovision.
• Other skills (preferred): Demonstrated experience in mouse handling and tissue collection.
• Demonstrated experience with confocal imaging and imaging analysis, and knowledge of histology and microscopy techniques.
• Proficiency in molecular biology techniques.
• Demonstrated ability to work both independently and as part of a team in a dynamic laboratory setting.
• Rodent survival surgery experience is a plus.
• Flow cytometry experience is a plus.
• Familiarity with sequencing library preparation, spatial transcriptomics, or bioinformatics analysis is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Conduct animal behavior experiments, including mouse handling, drug dosing by a variety of routes, and behavioral analysis
• Perform stereotaxic surgeries for delivering viral vectors or other research compounds directly to the brain
• Perform genotyping for maintenance of a transgenic mouse colony
• Collect tissues from experimental animals
• Perform cryo-sectioning, immunostaining, and fluorescent imaging on mouse brain samples
• Execute and refine protocols for image analysis
• 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, assisting in hazardous/biohazardous waste disposal, and maintaining laboratory safety records.
• Coordinate with core facilities (e.g. In Vivo Scientific Services, Biophotonics Imaging Core, Flow Cytometry Core, Integrative Genomics Core) for specialized technical support
• Maintain accurate records of experimental data and protocols in laboratory notebooks and databases.
• Participate in staff meetings and contribute to general problem-solving.
• Perform other related duties as assigned by management.

Benefits

• Salk Institute offers competitive benefits , including medical, dental, vision, retirement, paid time off, tuition reimbursement, patient advocacy services, and transit/parking program.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees