New

Research Technician

California Institute of Technology
vision insurance, parental leave, paid time off, sick time, tuition reimbursement
United States, California, Pasadena
Jun 27, 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 Kaihang Wang Lab in the Division of Biology and Biological Engineering at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) is seeking a full-time Research Technician to support computational efforts in the design of orthogonal DNA libraries for synthetic biology applications. The lab focuses on expanding the functional and regulatory capacity of engineered biological systems using highly programmable nucleic acid components. In this role, the technician will assist with running and maintaining computational pipelines, analyzing DNA sequence libraries, and supporting the development of software tools that generate large-scale, orthogonal DNA sequences with minimal crosstalk. This position offers hands-on experience at the intersection of biology and computation in a collaborative and fast-paced research environment-ideal for a recent graduate looking to grow their skills in computational biology, molecular engineering, or bioinformatics. Essential Job Duties Run established scripts and pipelines for DNA sequence generation and validation. Assist with the analysis of DNA hybridization properties and secondary structure predictions. Help manage DNA library design datasets and maintain documentation. Generate plots and visualizations of design outcomes and performance metrics. Provide general computational support to the research team. Participate in group meetings and present periodic progress updates. Basic Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Bioengineering, Molecular Biology, Applied Mathematics, or a related field. Applies basic knowledge of scientific methods and select techniques to assist research efforts in orthogonal DNA library generation. Proficiency in at least one programming language (e.g., Python, R, MATLAB). Familiarity with basic nucleic acid biology and an interest in synthetic biology. Strong attention to detail and organizational skills. Ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Preferred Qualifications Prior experience in a research lab setting (computational or wet lab). 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 Caltech complies with the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). We consider reasonable accommodation measures that may be necessary for eligible applicants and employees to perform the essential functions of a position. If you would like to request an accommodation to complete this application, interview, or otherwise participate in the employee selection process, please contact Caltech Recruiting at employment@caltech.edu. Additionally, if you do not meet the basic qualifications of a role but believe you can perform the essential functions of the job with reasonable accommodation, please reach out to Caltech Recruiting at employment@caltech.edu.