Research Technician & Lab Operations Lead

University of California-Berkeley; Berkeley (CA); On-site; USD 41,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

The Ingolia laboratory at UC Berkeley is seeking a technician to support functional genomics and RNA biology research. The role involves about 80% research time and 20% lab management, contributing to ongoing projects using standard molecular biology and genomics approaches.

We value motivated applicants with basic wet-lab experience, strong organization, and a willingness to learn new techniques under mentorship. This is a full-time, on-site position on the Berkeley campus.

Qualifications

• At least 1 year of laboratory experience.
• Familiarity with modern molecular biology and biochemistry techniques as described in job duties.
• Ability to work standing at the lab bench for extended periods.
• Motivation and willingness to learn new techniques and skills.
• Strong organizational and interpersonal skills.
• Bachelor's of Science in Biology or related area and/or equivalent experience/training.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine molecular biology laboratory work under supervision: prepare and validate DNA expression constructs by common molecular biology techniques such as PCR, restriction digest and electrophoresis.
• Measure gene expression and regulation by RNA isolation and qPCR and by flow cytometry.
• Perform routine cell culture laboratory work under supervision: maintain cell lines and expand cultures for molecular biology and biochemistry experiments.
• Introduce gene expression constructs into budding yeast and mammalian cells.
• Perform routine biochemical laboratory work such as SDS-PAGE and Western blotting under supervision.
• Manage lab operations: maintain inventory, order supplies, and unpack received items.
• Evaluate and select alternative options for laboratory consumables based on feedback from laboratory members.
• Support lab operations by monitoring common buffers and solutions and prepare them as needed.
• Coordinate maintenance and repair of laboratory equipment by scheduling visits for service technicians and providing them access to the laboratory.

Skills

Laboratory experience

Molecular biology techniques

Biochemistry techniques

Organizational skills

Interpersonal skills

Education

Bachelor's of Science in Biology or related field

Job description

The Ingolia laboratory at UC Berkeley is seeking a technician to support functional genomics and RNA biology research. The role involves about 80% research time and 20% lab management, contributing to ongoing projects using standard molecular biology and genomics approaches.

We value motivated applicants with basic wet-lab experience, strong organization, and a willingness to learn new techniques under mentorship. This is a full-time, on-site position on the Berkeley campus.