The Research Assistant I will support NIH R01-funded research focused on human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) differentiation and beta cell transplantation for the development of novel cell replacement therapies for diabetes. Working under the direction of the Principal Investigator and in collaboration with postdoctoral fellows, staff scientists, and research collaborators, the incumbent will assist with maintaining human iPSC cultures, performing multistage pancreatic and beta cell…
differentiation protocols, characterizing differentiated cells, and supporting transplantation studies in mouse models of diabetes.
The successful candidate will be responsible for following established laboratory protocols, maintaining accurate and detailed experimental records, and ensuring consistent application of aseptic techniques and quality standards. This position requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to execute complex, time-sensitive procedures with accuracy and reproducibility. The Research Assistant I will have the opportunity to develop technical expertise in stem cell biology, molecular and cellular biology techniques, genome engineering, and small-animal research while contributing to a collaborative and multidisciplinary research environment.
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.
What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be
- Maintain, expand, passage, cryopreserve, and recover human iPSC lines using sterile technique.
- Prepare reagents and support multistage differentiation of iPSCs into pancreatic progenitors, endocrine progenitors, and beta cell or islet-like organoids.
- Monitor cell culture quality, differentiation progress, and maintain accurate experimental records.
- Assist with banking, quality control, and characterization of genetically engineered iPSC lines.
- Perform DNA, RNA, and protein extraction and assist with molecular and cellular assays, including PCR, RT-qPCR, immunoblotting, ELISA, immunofluorescence, flow cytometry, and microscopy.
- Support analysis of beta cell differentiation and function through marker expression, viability assays, insulin/C-peptide measurements, and glucose-stimulated insulin secretion assays.
- Maintain accurate sample records, inventories, and experimental data.
- Assist with preparation and transplantation of iPSC-derived beta cell clusters or islet-like organoids under approved animal protocols.
- Assist with animal handling, monitoring, dosing, blood glucose measurements, and sample collection following appropriate training.
- Support tissue collection, processing, and analysis while maintaining required animal and experimental records.
- Prepare media, buffers, solutions, and reagents; maintain laboratory supplies, equipment, and inventory.
- Assist with ordering, receiving, labeling, and storage of laboratory materials.
- Follow laboratory safety procedures and participate in meetings, data discussions, and troubleshooting activities.
- Performs other related duties as assigned by management.
Supervisory Responsibilities
This job has no supervisory responsibilities.
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: (Select all applicable): Accounting Software; Contract Management Systems; Development Software; Human Resource Systems; Inventory Software; Microsoft Office; Payroll Systems; Project Management Software)
- Other skills (preferred):
- Prior experience or internships in a laboratory setting.
- Prior experience with histology, which may be gained from coursework and/or work experience.
- Basic knowledge of laboratory procedures and safety practices.
- Familiarity with specific laboratory techniques or equipment relevant to the Institute's operations.
- Knowledge of relevant regulations and compliance standards.
- Academic laboratory experience applying basic cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or tissue culture principles.
- Experience maintaining organized laboratory records and following written protocols accurately.
What We Can Offer
The expected pay range for this position is $18.00 to $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, 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.
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