Research Assistant I - Laboratory of Dr. Nicola Allen

Research Assistant I - Laboratory of Dr. Nicola Allen

Job Category : Research Sciences

Requisition Number : RESEA
002835

• Posted :
  August 20, 2026
• Full-Time

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Salk Main Campus
10010 N Torrey Pines Road
La Jolla, CA , USA

Salk Main Campus
10010 N Torrey Pines Road
La Jolla, CA , USA

This position is to join a group investigating the role of non-neuronal cells called astrocytes in brain development and function in health and disease. The goals of the group are to identify factors released by astrocytes that regulate neuronal function and apply them to disorders where neurons are dysfunctional to rescue the deficit.

This Research Assistant I position is responsible for assisting various molecular biology, cell culture, and biochemistry techniques; animal handling, training, husbandry, injection, surgery and perfusion; tissue slicing, immunostaining, imaging, data processing, preparing buffer solutions, autoclaving, and other general lab duties in support of the Principal Investigator (PI) and lab research goals.

Additional responsibilities include assisting with general laboratory maintenance, including equipment maintenance, ordering supplies, etc. The position will be trained in specific techniques and methods to execute experiments that are broadly designed by a Postdoc or PhD student and must be able to carry out and analyze experimental results independently.

Who We Are

The Salk Institute is an internationally renowned research institution that valuesall 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

• 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.
• Normally receives general instruction on routine work, and detailed instructions on new assignments.
• Performs animal handling and husbandry.
• Assist with and perform animal injections, surgery, and perfusion.
• Assist with and perform tissue slicing, immunostaining, imaging, data processing, and analysis.
• Independently maintain cultures of mouse glial cells and neurons.
• Assist with maintaining laboratory supplies and reagents.
• 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.

Preferred:

• Demonstrated experience working in a research laboratory setting and knowledge of basic lab techniques.
• Experience working in an animal research environment.

What We Can Offer

The expected pay range for this position is $18.00 to $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.

Salk Institute offers…