Staff Scientist, Insect Genome Engineering & Transgenics

Taleo; Pasadena, Northern (CA, KY); Hybrid; USD 63,000 - 89,000; Full time

Job summary

Caltech in Pasadena is seeking a scientist to execute and guide genetic engineering in the Parker lab, focusing on the rove beetle Dalotia coriaria. You will develop a genetic toolkit to study evolutionary gains and losses of cell types and behaviors in interspecies interactions.

The role requires planning knock-ins, producing transgenics, confirming phenotypes, and maintaining engineered lines, with emphasis on practical genome editing in Coleoptera and insect husbandry.

Qualifications

• BS in Evolutionary Biology or closely related discipline.
• 3+ years of genome editing experience in insects.
• 3+ years of genome editing in Coleoptera.
• 2+ years of genetic editing and husbandry experience with Aleocharinae rove beetles, specifically Dalotia coriaria.

Responsibilities

• Plan knock-in projects: identify endpoints, design DNA constructs, synthesize reagents and purchase items.
• Produce transgenics: perform microinjections, rear and genotype, cross to isogenize.
• Confirm phenotypes: use qPCR, microscopy, GCMS, and related tools.
• Maintain engineered lines: genotype/phenotype routinely, monitor fitness metrics and decontaminate as needed.

Skills

Genome editing in insects

Genome editing in Coleoptera

Rove beetle handling

Insect husbandry

Education

BS in Evolutionary Biology or related field

PhD in Evolutionary Biology (preferred)

Job description

Caltech in Pasadena is seeking a scientist to execute and guide genetic engineering in the Parker lab, focusing on the rove beetle Dalotia coriaria. You will develop a genetic toolkit to study evolutionary gains and losses of cell types and behaviors in interspecies interactions.

The role requires planning knock-ins, producing transgenics, confirming phenotypes, and maintaining engineered lines, with emphasis on practical genome editing in Coleoptera and insect husbandry.