Research Associate - Tracy Lab

Buck Institute for Research on Aging; Novato (CA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 68,000; Full time

Job summary

The Buck Institute for Research on Aging in Marin County, CA seeks a Research Associate to join the Tracy Laboratory. The role supports studies on molecular events underlying synapse dysfunction and cognitive decline in Alzheimer’s disease, using mouse models and human iPSC-derived neurons.

Responsibilities include cell culture, mouse colony management, genotyping, PCRs, Western blots, immunostaining, and general lab organization.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in biology required.
• Experience with cell culture or mice preferred.
• Strong organization and ability to work independently and prioritize tasks.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and culture human iPSC-derived neurons and other cells.
• Organize and manage mouse colonies and perform genotyping.
• Assist with PCRs, Western blots and immunostaining as needed.
• Order supplies and help keep the laboratory organized and functional.

Skills

Cell culture

Mice handling

Laboratory techniques

Education

Bachelor's degree in biology

Tools

PCR

Western blot

Immunostaining

Job description

Position Overview

The Tracy Laboratory is seeking a motivated Research Associate to join our team investigating the molecular events that lead to synapse dysfunction and cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. The Research Associate will provide technical support and assistance performing laboratory work for ongoing research in the Tracy Laboratory to elucidate the mechanisms that cause memory loss. Our research involves using transgenic mouse models of disease and human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived neurons to dissect mechanisms that cause neuronal dysfunction during disease pathogenesis.

Responsibilities

• Making and maintaining cell cultures for the laboratory (human iPSCs, human iPSC-derived neurons, astrocytes, and HEK293 cells)
• Organizing and general management of the mouse colony
• Breeding, weaning, euthanizing and general husbandry of mice in the colony
• Tail cutting, ear punching and genotyping of mice in the colony
• Assisting members of the lab with the projects that they are leading by completing duties that may include making solutions, running PCRs and western blots or performing immunostaining
• Ordering laboratory supplies
• Delivering packages of supplies that arrive for the Tracy laboratory, unpacking them, and organizing them
• Helping with laboratory organization and performing general care and maintenance of the laboratory and its equipment including tissue culture incubators and biosafety cabinets

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in biology (BA or BS)
• Experience handling mice is desirable
• Experience with basic laboratory techniques or methods, especially cell culture, is desirable
• Excellent organizational skills and record keeping
• Proven accuracy and attention to detail
• Demonstrated ability to manage different projects simultaneously with the ability to work independently with minimal supervision and independently prioritize assignments

Compensation & Benefits

• Annual salary: $52,000 - $68,000, depending on skills and experience
• Comprehensive benefits including medical/dental/vision coverage, paid time off, paid parental leave, 401(k) employer contribution, and a student debt repayment option
• This is an onsite position

About The Buck Institute

Our success will ultimately change healthcare. At the Buck, we aim to end the threat of age-related diseases for this and future generations by bringing together the most capable and passionate scientists from a broad range of disciplines to identify and impede the ways in which we age. We are an independent, non-profit institution located in Marin County, CA, with the goal of increasing human healthspan, or the healthy years of life. Globally recognized as the pioneer and leader in efforts to target aging - the number one risk factor for diseases including Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, cancer, macular degeneration, heart disease, and diabetes - the Buck seeks to help people live better longer.

We are an equal opportunity employer and strive to create an atmosphere where diversity of identity, experience, and background are welcomed, valued, and supported. Candidates who contribute to this diversity are strongly encouraged to apply.