Research Technician

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Job Summary

The Shapiro Laboratory at the California Institute of Technology develops bio-molecular technologies for non-invasive imaging and control of cellular function inside living organisms to facilitate basic biology research and the development of cell-based diagnostic and therapeutic agents. We are seeking a Research Technician experienced with small animal research to join our team and help us accomplish this mission. Additional information about the Shapiro group can be found at

The Research Technician will conduct collaborative experiments involving in vivo procedures, maintain animal colonies, contribute to written animal care and use protocols, keep track of and order research supplies and reagents, and maintain research equipment. The successful candidate will be an integral member of the research team, alongside the lab manager, research scientists, postdoctoral fellows, and graduate students, and could become a co-author on scientific publications.

Essential Job Duties

75% Primary Research Contributions

Performs scientific research that includes standard small animal procedures, such as oral gavage, IV, IC, SC, and IP injections.

Learns and performs specialized surgical procedures such as craniotomies.

Performs imaging using methods such as fluorescence, luminescence, ultrasound, or magnetic resonance.

Performs ex vivo procedures such as tissue fixation, sectioning, histology, and optical microscopy.

Complies with and helps write and update laboratory and Institute operating procedures and protocols for safe and humane in vivo experiments.

Trains group members wishing to perform their own in vivo experiments.

Tracks, maintains, and orders research supplies and reagents.

Maintains equipment related to animal research.

Other duties as assigned.

25% Laboratory Operations

Assists with research-related laboratory tasks, such as preparing biological reagents and maintaining shared resources.

Restocks and orders consumables, reagents, and gas necessary for research.

Basic Qualifications

Bachelor's degree or higher in Biology, Bioengineering, or related field.

1 or more years' experience with small animal laboratory research in academia or industry.

Excellent interpersonal and problem-solving skills.

Excellent collaboration and communication skills.

Strong organizational and time-management skills.

Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced research environment.

Ability to master new material and to adapt to changes in workflow and requirements

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with mouse surgical procedures, tissue processing, and/or imaging techniques.

Experience with tail vein injection.

Required Documents

Resume