Research Assistant II, Laboratory of Dr. Christina Towers & Dr. Lucia Strader

Job Category :
Research Sciences

Requisition Number : RESEA
002850

• Posted :
  September 25, 2026
• Full-Time

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As a Research Assistant II, this position will be supporting the laboratory of Dr. Christina Towers and Dr. Lucia Strader where they will focus on molecular biology and cancer research related to cellular recycling in pediatric and other types of cancer. The Research Assistant II position involves a focus on molecular biology, cell culture, and tumor xenograft mouse models. The successful candidate will spend 25% of their time managing the supplies of the lab and the other 75% supporting postdoctoral researchers on projects related to the above studies.

Responsibilities include managing supplies and orders along with EHS regulations.

The scientific duties include tissue culture, molecular cloning, molecular biology protocols, mouse handling, tumor xenograft studies, and endpoint studies. The position requires the ability to execute experiments based on instructions from postdocs or the principal investigator (PI) and independently analyze the results.

The Research Assistant will work closely alongside multiple postdocs who will provide direct supervision. This role involves receiving comprehensive training in various research techniques to offer valuable research support. The Research Assistant II will be responsible for conducting experiments designed by the postdocs and ensuring precise execution, documentation, and organization of experimental procedures and outcomes.

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.

• Independently maintaining human cell cultures
• Maintaining cell lines for virus production (lenti/AAV).
• Producing and titrating lentivirus from human cell lines.
• Performing various molecular biology techniques, including RNA/DNA extraction/analysis, PCR, rtPCR, Maxi preps, gel electrophoresis, and recombinant DNA techniques.
• Conducting Western blotting, qRT-PCR, and RNA-sequencing experiments.
• Ensuring the quality control of reagents.
• Tumor xenograft studies including injection of tumor cells, measuring tumors, mouse dissections and end point assays
• Generate progenitor mouse cell lines from neonate animals
• Training and providing assistance to other lab personnel in research techniques and equipment usage.
• Participating in staff meetings and contributing to general problem-solving.
• Assisting with hazardous, biohazardous, and waste disposal procedures.
• Helping maintain laboratory safety records.
• Managing laboratory supplies and equipment.
• Performs other related duties as assigned by management.

• Train and oversee undergraduates in the lab on basic techniques, including buffer preparation and autoclaving

• Minimum 2 years experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience required.
• Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences or related scientific discipline required. A minimum of 4 years of experience in a scientific role is required for consideration of a Bachelor's degree in a different discipline.
• Other skills (preferred):
  • Fundamental skills in molecular biology and cell culture

The expected pay range for this position is $21.15 to $25.00 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…