Carnegie Science is dedicated to scientific exploration to advance investigation, research, and discovery, and apply that knowledge for the improvement of humankind.
Position Summary
We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Laboratory Technician to join three recently relocated research laboratories to Caltech, Pasadena. Our groups study a diverse range of photosynthetic microorganisms and microbial communities using a combination of microbiological, molecular, genomic, imaging, and computational approaches.
As a key member of our laboratories, you will play an important role in establishing and maintaining our new research spaces while supporting scientists, postdoctoral researchers, and students with a wide variety of laboratory activities. This position is ideal for an organized, proactive individual who enjoys working in a collaborative, fast-paced, interdisciplinary research environment and is excited by the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge microbial and environmental biology research.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Laboratory Setup and Operations
- Assist with the organization, setup, and optimization of newly relocated laboratory spaces.
- Establish and maintain inventories of laboratory supplies, reagents, consumables, and equipment.
- Coordinate purchasing, receiving, and stocking of laboratory materials.
- Coordinate pickups for laboratory waste.
- Maintain laboratory records, protocols, and safety documentation.
- Help ensure compliance with institutional safety and regulatory requirements.
Microbiological and Molecular Laboratory Support
- Prepare media, buffers, reagents, and stock solutions.
- Culture, maintain, and monitor photosynthetic microorganisms and other microbial strains.
- Assist with routine microbiological experiments and sample processing.
- Support molecular biology workflows, including DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, and library preparation.
- Assist with sample collection, preservation, and archiving.
Equipment Maintenance
- Maintain laboratory instruments and coordinate service and repairs when needed.
- Monitor growth chambers, incubators, freezers, and other shared laboratory equipment.
- Ensure proper calibration and operation of laboratory instruments.
Research Support
- Provide technical assistance to researchers across all three laboratories.
- Help train new laboratory members in standard laboratory procedures.
- Assist with data organization, record keeping, and protocol documentation.
- Participate in laboratory meetings and contribute to a collaborative research environment.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biological Sciences, Environmental Science, or a related field.
- Experience working in microbiology, molecular biology, or related laboratory settings.
- Familiarity with aseptic techniques and microbial culturing.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities effectively.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience culturing photosynthetic microorganisms, including cyanobacteria, algae, or other environmental microbes.
- Familiarity with molecular biology techniques such as DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, qPCR, and sequencing workflows.
- Experience with laboratory inventory management and ordering systems.
- Knowledge of laboratory safety practices and regulatory compliance.
- Experience supporting multiple research groups in a shared laboratory environment.
What We Offer
- The opportunity to work with a diverse and collaborative team of scientists.
- Exposure to a wide range of cutting-edge microbiological, biochemical, molecular, and ecological research techniques.
- Professional development opportunities in a dynamic research environment.
- A chance to help build and shape newly established laboratory facilities and operations.
How to Apply
Please submit:
- A cover letter describing your interest in the position and relevant experience.
- A current curriculum vitae or résumé.
- Contact information for 2–3 professional references.
Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
Carnegie Institution for Science is an equal employment opportunity employer. All applicants will receive consideration of employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.
Disability Accommodations:
If you would like to request an accommodation in completing this application, interviewing, or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to Carnegie Recruiting at
[email protected].
