Research Tech I/II (Sette Lab)
Viral Research Tech I/II (Sette Lab)
A full-time position for a Research Technician is available immediately at the La Jolla Institute for Immunology, an academic non-profit research institute. The Research Technician will join the lab of Dr. Alessandro Sette under the direct supervision of Dr. Alba Grifoni, world-renowned for their work on T cell responses in SARS-CoV-2. The successful candidate will join an interdisciplinary group of researchers and be involved by performing experiments critical for high-impact projects investigating human T cell reactivity against viruses with particular emphasis on Coronaviruses (SARS-CoV-2) and Orthopoxviruses (Monkeypox). Our research focuses on studying T cell responses in human blood samples from vaccinated individuals or those suffering from active infections or diseases.
Interested applicants, please submit a single file in the portal where CV is requested containing:
- Brief 1-page cover letter relating to how your interests match with the current position and how your talents fulfill the criteria for this position
- Your resume/CV
- Minimum of two references (three preferred)
Applications without a cover letter will NOT be reviewed.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
The Research Technician will primarily:
- Perform and analyze data derived from flow cytometry-based experiments using state-of-the-art flow cytometry technology.
- Apply a wide range of other immunological techniques including but not limited to isolating primary cells, long term cell culture, and FluoroSpot/ELISPOT assays.
Research Technician responsibilities will also include:
- Preparing buffers, solutions, and routine lab chemicals.
- Laboratory administrative duties that include maintaining a research database, data entry into spreadsheets, and ordering/receiving supplies.
- Installing, operating, and maintaining laboratory equipment.
- Organizing and keeping accurate and meticulous records of all reagents in freezers, refrigerators, and liquid nitrogen tanks.
Leveling Requirements
Candidates must have:
- B.A./B.S. or higher in a biological science, chemistry, or biochemistry. Previous experience in a cellular/molecular biology laboratory is a bonus.
- Theoretical knowledge of biology, immunology, cell biology or related field at the college "upper division" level; or equivalent knowledge and experience.
- Demonstrated proficiency in basic and advanced tissue culture techniques.
- Proven experience using laboratory equipment such as centrifuges, balances, and pipettes.
- Proven experience in accurate record keeping with ability to organize, analyze, and calculate data.
- Superior oral and written communication skills.
- Positive attitude and ability to work as part of a team.
- Proven multitasking capability.
Preferred Qualifications
Demonstrated proficiency in flow cytometry, FluoroSpot/ELISPOT, Microsoft Office package, basic knowledge of programming.
Special Conditions
Must be willing to work with human blood.
Must be willing to work with recombinant DNA and biohazardous materials.
LJI provides Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment, and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type, regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, marital status, disability status, genetics, medical conditions, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, reproductive health decisions, or pregnancy, or any other condition protected by state and local laws. This applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruitment, hiring, placing, training, promotion, compensation, benefits, transfers, educational assistance, terminations, layoffs, recalls, transfers, leaves of absences, and social and recreational programs.
With over 30 different countries represented, diversity is respected and celebrated at LJI. We are committed to ensuring a safe and compassionate environment that is equal, just, and fair. Science and discovery benefit from a diversity of talents, a diversity of approaches, and a diversity of perspectives. The La Jolla Institute’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiative is designed to help us identify areas at the Institute that need improvement so we can together create an environment that is inclusive, provides equal opportunities, and opens doors that propel our research for human health.
The expected hiring range for this position is $16.64 to $32.54 per hour
La Jolla Institute is committed to compensation that is externally competitive and internally equitable. We validate this commitment by conducting regular market analyses to remain competitive with organizations of similar size in the nonprofit, independent research sector. Compensation decisions consider a variety of factors including experience, education, unique skill sets, organizational need, and internal equity.