Functional Genetic Technician

California Institute of Technology
vision insurance, parental leave, paid time off, sick time, tuition reimbursement
United States, California, Pasadena
Jun 09, 2025
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 Parker lab at Caltech is searching for a Functional Genetic Technician to generate genetically modified rove beetles (Dalotia coriaria) for the study of behavior and chemical ecology. The successful candidate will work with the Principal Investigator and lab members (graduate students and postdocs) to establish and maintain engineered beetle lines created using CRISPR/CAS9 gene editing and transposon-mediated transgenesis technologies. The position requires competence in molecular biology techniques for the design and construction of plasmid vectors and sgRNAs for insect genome engineering. The position also demands careful screening and husbandry of insect cultures. Necessary bioinformatic skills can be acquired through training in the Parker lab. Essential Job Duties Molecular biology methods (DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, cloning, cDNA synthesis). Design and synthesis of sgRNAs and transformation vectors for gene editing and transgenic manipulation of rove beetles. Screening and husbandry of transgenic and mutant rove beetles to establish stable genetically modified lines. Working with genomic and transcriptomic data for the above tasks. Maintenance of genetically modified beetles. Working with postdocs and students to design and engineer project-specific genetic constructs. Basic Qualifications BS in a biology-related field with 1 year of experience in molecular biology techniques. Preferred Qualifications Experience with insect genetic manipulation. Experience with plasmid design and construction. Experience with insect transgenesis. Experience with insect rearing/husbandry. 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.