POSITION SUMMARY

Under close supervision, position will perform tasks and experiments in support of academic research projects. Position will be part of plant research group studying the genes involved in Arabidopsis root growth.  Responsibilities may include: preparing media plates, overseeing plating of seeds by a robot and/or plating seeds, scanning media plates on flatbed scanner, simple data analysis, watering plants, and general lab maintenance.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Research and Lab Support 

• Prepares media and media plates
• Oversees proper operation of automated plating system
• Run PCR and purify PCR product
• Waters, stakes, and harvests plants in growth chambers
• Extract genomic DNA
• Assists with scanning plates on flatbed scanner
• Troubleshoots various steps of the experiment
• Monitors plants including watering and seeding
• Facilitates the transfer of seedlings to media plates for experimental assay
• Performs general lab cleanliness and maintenance

EXPERIENCE 

Required: 

• No professional experience required. 

Preferred:

• Experience in a laboratory setting
• Experience with sterile environments

EDUCATION

 Required 

• High school diploma or general education degree (GED), or one to three months related experience and/or training, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Preferred 

• Coursework in genetics, plant biology, physics, or chemistry

SKILLS AND ABILITIES 

Required

• Understands operation of basic lab equipment
• Ability to perform routine, repetitive functions
• After initial instruction, ability to follow directions and perform repetitive tasks
• Ability to communicate required information and keep accurate records of work performed
• Proven ability to work both independently and also as part of a collaborative team
• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written
• Strong interpersonal skills, including tact, diplomacy, and flexibility
• Demonstrated ability to interact effectively with diverse groups. Demonstrated skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with personnel at all levels
• Strong attention to detail 

Preferred:

• N/A

SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

• Must be willing to work an adjusted schedule to support research needs
• Successful completion of the Institute’s background investigation

The expected pay range for this position is $16.85 - $17.00 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.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/MENTAL ACTIVITIES/ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

The incumbent in this position will be constantly carrying over 50 lbs., handling, seeing, and talking.

The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities, or physical requirements.  Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. All individuals who accept a position with the Salk Institute must be willing to work in an animal-related research environment, must successfully complete the Institute’s background investigation and must be willing to sign a confidentiality agreement.

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.