Research Assistant I - Laboratory of Dr. Rusty Gage

at  Salk Institute for Biological Studies

SUMMARY:

As a Research Assistant I, this position will be supporting the Laboratory of Dr. Gage where they will focus on research support primarily centered around in vivo rodent experiments, histology, and image analysis. This position will be responsible for conducting drug dosing, assessing animal behavior, and collecting brain tissue samples. The position will also be responsible for performing standard immunohistochemistry techniques and obtaining and analyzing confocal images. Position will also assist with implementation of novel spatial transcriptomics methods, all under the direct supervision of a Staff Scientist. Position will be trained in specific techniques and methods in order to execute experiments designed by Staff Scientist. Research Assistant will be expected to carry out, document, organize, and present experimental results to the research team under close supervision. Research Assistant will also be responsible for equipment maintenance and training within the lab’s histology area. Candidate must be willing to work with rodents (mice), common viral vectors (AAV, lentivirus, or retrovirus), and biological materials derived from these sources.
This position supports the Gage lab’s project investigating the role of individual hippocampal neurons in memory formation and memory discrimination.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• No professional experience required.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Neuroscience, 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.
• Other skills (preferred):
• 1-2 years’ experience in a laboratory setting.
• Demonstrated experience in mouse handling and tissue collection
• Demonstrated experience with confocal imaging and imaging analysis, and knowledge of histology and microscopy techniques.
• Knowledge of molecular biology and animal behavior, which may be gained from coursework and/or work experience.
• Proficient in the operation of standard lab equipment and computer hardware/software relevant to the position and institute.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Perform cryo-sectioning, immunostaining, and fluorescent imaging on mouse brain samples
• Perform genotyping for maintenance of a transgenic mouse colony
• Conduct animal behavior experiments, including mouse handling, drug dosing by a variety of routes, and behavioral analysis
• Collect tissues from experimental animals
• 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, attending staff meetings, assisting in hazardous/biohazardous waste disposal, and maintaining laboratory safety records.
• Keep detailed and complete experimental records
• Work on problems of moderate scope in which analysis of situation or data requires the review of identifiable factors.
• Exercise judgment within defined procedures and practices to determine appropriate action.
• Work is performed under direct supervision.
• Performs other related duties as assigned by management.