Senior Research Scientist

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 Conduct research in the Prober Lab focused on zebrafish behavior and immunology. Design and perform experiments, develop and adapt research assays, and analyze experimental data using coding and appropriate statistical methods. Essential Job Duties Conceive original research, design and perform experiments in zebrafish behavior and immunology. Generate code and employ appropriate statistical tests to analyze data. Generate new assays as needed and adapt published assays to the needs of current projects. Methods include: Molecular genetics: design and clone DNA constructs and use microinjections to generate transgenic zebrafish lines, use CRISPR technology to generate mutant zebrafish lines. Behavior: Use video-tracking technology combined with mechanoacoustic, pharmacological, genetic, chemogenetic and optogenetic manipulation of zebrafish behavior and assess the effects on arousal, locomotion, and sleep. Microscopy: Use epifluorescence and confocal microscopy for imaging of live and fixed tissue. Histochemical analysis: Use immunohistochemistry, in situ staining, HCR, and similar techniques to analyze protein localization and gene expression. Zebrafish husbandry: Establish and maintain zebrafish lines, validate new mutant and transgenic lines. Writing and communication Based on the results of original research, write research manuscripts and grant applications. Advise on preparation and edit manuscripts and grants created by others in the lab. Attend meeting and conferences and present research findings in posters and talks. Supervision and mentoring Manage and supervise technicians daily on general duties and independent projects; provide guidance on experimental design and execution, data analysis, and presentation. Mentor and train graduate students and postdocs as needed in all areas of expertise and especially on performing and analyzing video-tracking experiments. Special focus in training new lab members and supervising them closely in their first few years in the lab. Equipment and mentoring Responsible for maintaining and repairing critical lab equipment (video-tracking machines). Coordinate major repairs and upgrades with vendor support as needed. Provide training and support to lab members in conducting video-tracking experiments and analyzing the results. Basic Qualifications PhD and postdoctoral experience in Biology. Minimum of 8 years experience in zebrafish behavior, molecular biology, genetics, microscopy, and histochemical techniques, strong publication record. Required Documents Resume.