The Research Assistant I position will be supporting the Laboratory of Dr. John Reynolds where they will participate actively in an exciting project whose aim is to understand the neural mechanisms underlying age-related cognitive decline. Under direct supervision of the Sr. Staff Scientist Dr. Courtney Glavis-Bloom, the Research Assistant will learn how to train and test the cognitive capacities of animals using a battery of behavioral tasks. They will also work with and analyze electron microscopy data that gives us a view of age-related changes in the structural organization of the synaptic connections where memories are stored. There will be opportunities for contributing to publications. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who is excited about science and is highly motivated to contribute to our understanding of the brain.

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

• Assists with animal testing, task programming, and data analysis.
• Analyzes imaging data and assists with animal procedures to facilitate imaging.
• Reads and analyzes primary literature.
• Assists with collaborative projects.
• Works on problems of moderate scope in which analysis of situation or data requires the review of identifiable factors.
• Exercises 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 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.
• Computer skills required: Microsoft Office; Python or other basic coding experience.
• Other skills (preferred):
  • Experience with quantitative data analysis.
  • Demonstrated experience and application of animal behavior testing.
  • Experience with histology and/or microscopy.
  • Experience with some form of coding (Matlab, Python, etc.).
  • Wet lab and/or cell culture experience.

What We Can Offer

The expected pay range for this position is $18.03-$21.00 hourly.  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.