Research Technical Assistant

at  California Institute of Technology

JOB SUMMARY

The Fianu Lab at Caltech is a team of researchers dedicated to studying gene regulation and genome stability. Our research primarily focuses on in vitro reconstitution and cryo-electron microscopy to explore the molecular machinery that ensures precise gene regulation and the accurate maintenance of the genome.
We are seeking a talented and motivated Research Technical Assistant to establish and maintain mammalian and insect tissue cultures in our lab. The successful candidate will be collaborative, contribute to multiple projects, and work closely with researchers to develop protocols for protein expression and purification.
This position is perfect for individuals eager to learn in a dynamic and stimulating scientific environment.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree (preferably in Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular and Cell Biology, or Microbiology) with 1 year of work experience, or an MSc in a related field.
• Experience with routine mammalian and insect cell culturing and using sterile techniques.
• Practical knowledge of basic molecular biology techniques (e.g., nucleic acid extraction, PCR, molecular cloning).
• Strong organizational and recordkeeping skills.
• Excellent communication skills.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience with mammalian and insect tissue culture.
• Experience in protein purification using AKTA HPLC systems.

• Establish and maintain mammalian and insect tissue cultures.
• Conduct heterologous protein expression in mammalian and insect hosts.
• Perform transformations and transfections and manage tissue cultures.
• Perform basic molecular cloning and generate baculoviruses for protein expression.
• Purify proteins using AKTA HPLC systems and standardize purification protocols.
• Assist in biochemical assays and contribute to the cryo-EM sample preparation pipeline.
• Other duties as assigned.