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Research Technician

California Institute of Technology
vision insurance, parental leave, paid time off, sick time, tuition reimbursement
United States, California, Pasadena
Nov 12, 2024

Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world's brightest minds and most innovative tools to address fundamental scientific questions. We thrive on finding and cultivating talented people who are passionate about what they do. Join us and be a part of the diverse Caltech community.

Job Summary

The Shapiro Laboratory at the California Institute of Technology develops molecular and cellular technologies to enable non-invasive imaging and control of biological processes. We are seeking a Research Technician to join our team and help us accomplish this research mission. The successful candidate will assist with laboratory operations and contribute to experiments involving molecular and cellular engineering. The Research Technician will be an integral member of the laboratory alongside the lab manager, other technicians, postdoctoral fellows, and graduate students. As part of their research project contributions, they may be awarded co-authorship on scientific publications.

Additional information about the Shapiro group can be found athttp://shapirolab.caltech.edu.

Essential Job Duties

50%: Preparing, assaying, and distributing key research reagents for Shapiro lab and collaborators, such as:



  • Expression and purification of gas vesicle proteins for ultrasound research.
  • Developing methods for scaled-up production and quality testing of gas vesicles for translational research.
  • Preparation of transformation-competent bacteria for molecular cloning.


25%: Assisting with research-related laboratory operations, such as:



  • Organizing, restocking/ordering, or preparing the laboratory's biological consumables and reagents.
  • Organizing the maintenance of major laboratory equipment.
  • Completing protocols and standard operating procedures.
  • Participating in lab cleanups and waste disposal.


25%: Assisting with one or more research projects involving techniques such as:



  • Molecular biology (DNA cloning).
  • Bacterial and mammalian cell culture.
  • Biochemical methods such as protein purification and electrophoresis.
  • Fluorescence microscopy.
  • Ultrasound imaging.
  • Histology.
  • Data processing.


The percentages are approximate and may change based on laboratory needs. Other duties may be assigned as needed.

Basic Qualifications



  • Bachelor's degree in Biology, Bioengineering, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
  • 1+ year of laboratory experience with molecular biology, biochemistry, cell biology, and/or animal models.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
  • Adaptability and interest in taking on a variety of tasks and challenges.


Required Documents



  • Resume

Hiring Range

$18.50 - $24.75 per hour

The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty and training.

As one of the largest employers in Pasadena, CA, Caltech is committed to providing comprehensive benefits to eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Our benefits package includes competitive compensation, health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings plans, generous paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick time, parental leave, bereavement, etc.), tuition reimbursement, and more. Non-benefit eligible employees will have access to some benefits such as onsite counseling and sick time. Learn more about our benefits and staff perks.


EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Caltech is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.

To read more Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) go to eeoc_self_print_poster.pdf.

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 Caltech Recruiting at employment@caltech.edu.


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