"Research Technician"

Position Description

Research Technician

Job Category
Fulltime Term

ExemptOvertimeEligible
Overtime Eligible

Benefits Eligible
Benefit Based

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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 Division of Biology and Biological Engineering at Caltech seeks a highly skilled and well-organized Research Technician to assist with research with the Mazmanian group. The Research Technician will perform in vivo experiments, including rodent handling, rodent breeding, tissue collection, and behavioral assessments. This role plays a key part in advancing our understanding of microbiome-related mechanisms in autism spectrum disorder.

Essential Job Duties

• Perform a range of in vivo techniques, including mouse handling, behavioral assessments, and tissue collection.
• Lead testing in animal models of emotional behavior.
• Conduct various laboratory assays, including biochemistry/molecular biology assays.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data, and prepare scientific documents including report findings, protocols, and other related materials for presentations, regulatory submissions, and publications.
• Handle other related lab responsibilities as assigned.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in biology or related field.
• 2+ years of relevant experience.
• Wet laboratory experience in a biology or related discipline, including basic laboratory techniques (pipetting, centrifugation, solution preparation) and technical experience with RTqPCR, ELISA, western blotting, etc.
• Previous experience with mouse models of behavior.
• Experience in mouse husbandry and daily animal care, including cage maintenance, health monitoring, and proper handling.
• Ability to collect and analyze data on mouse behavior and document findings using Excel, PRISM, R, etc.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills for effective collaboration and documentation, including contributing to study reports.
• Ability to work in a collaborative team environment and independently.
• Ability to maintain detailed experimental records and protocols.
• Able to maneuver and handle heavy wheeled equipment, remain on your feet for an entire shift, perform repetitive tasks, and lift, push, pull, or carry objects weighing up to 25 lbs.

Preferred Qualifications

• B.S. in Biology, Neuroscience, Bioengineering, or a related discipline, with 2+ years of research experience.
• Hands-on experience conducting in vivo research with mice.
• Experience with behavioral assays such as Ultrasonic Vocalizations (USV), Elevated Plus Maze (EPM), and social interaction tests (including grooming), to assess anxiety, social communication, and repetitive behaviors in rodent models.
• Strong organizational and analytical skills to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Knowledge of and demonstrated adherence to regulatory requirements, including IACUC, IBC, IRB, and Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) procedures.

Required Documents

• Resume

Hiring Range

$25.25 - $30.75 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.