Intern - Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory - Dr. Nicola Allen

SUMMARY: The intern position will engage in a hands-on neuroscience research opportunity in the Molecular and Neurobiology Laboratory of Dr. Nicola Allen. The Intern position will research and focus on studying a class of non-neuronal cells called astrocytes and their roles in regulating brain function. The intern position will specifically work on a project led by a senior PhD student investigating the contributions of astrocyte lipid metabolism to synaptic deficits in aging and Alzheimer's Disease.

This is a temporary position with a 10 week anticipated duration.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Cell culture
• qPCR analysis
• Immunostaining
• Performs other related duties as assigned by supervisor.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• This job has no supervisory responsibilities.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• No prior experience or training.
• Currently enrolled at college pursuing a Bachelor's Degree (BA)
• Computer skills required: (Microsoft Office)

COMPETENCIES:

• Dependability - Follows instructions, responds to management direction; Takes responsibility for own actions; Keeps commitments; Commits to long hours of work when necessary to reach goals; Completes tasks on time or notifies appropriate person with an alternate plan.
• Motivation - Sets and achieves challenging goals; Demonstrates persistence and overcomes obstacles; Measures self against standard of excellence; Takes calculated risks to accomplish goals.
• Problem Solving - Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; Gathers and analyzes information skillfully; Develops alternative solutions; Works well in group problem solving situations; Uses reason even when dealing with emotional topics.
• Technical Skills - Assesses own strengths and weaknesses; Pursues training and development opportunities; Strives to continuously build knowledge and skills; Shares expertise with others.
• Safety and Security - Observes safety and security procedures; Determines appropriate action beyond guidelines; Reports potentially unsafe conditions; Uses equipment and materials properly.
• Ethics - Treats people with respect; Keeps commitments; Inspires the trust of others; Works with integrity and ethically; Upholds organizational values.
• Diversity - Demonstrates knowledge of Salk policies related to diversity, equity & inclusion; Shows respect and sensitivity for cultural differences; Educates others on the value of diversity; Promotes a harassment-free environment; Builds a diverse workforce.

The pay rate for this position is $16.30 an hour.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Frequently required to stand
• Occasionally required to walk
• Frequently required to sit
• Frequently required to utilize hand and finger dexterity
• Occasionally required to climb, balance, bend, stoop, kneel or crawl
• Occasionally required to talk or hear
• Occasionally work around fumes, airborne particles, or toxic chemicals
• Occasionally exposure to bloodborne and airborne pathogens or infectious materials

The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities, or physical requirements. Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. All individuals who accept a position with the Salk Institute must be willing to work in an animal-related research environment, must successfully complete the Institute's background investigation and must be willing to sign a confidentiality agreement.