Carnegie Institution for Science has announced an opening for a Laboratory Technician position in Pasadena, California, offering an opportunity for early-career scientists to contribute to cutting-edge research in microbiology, molecular biology, and environmental science.

The full-time role will support three research laboratories recently relocated to the California Institute of Technology campus, where scientists investigate photosynthetic microorganisms and microbial communities using advanced microbiological, genomic, imaging, and computational techniques.

The position is ideal for candidates seeking hands-on laboratory experience in a collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment.

About Carnegie Science

Founded to advance scientific exploration and discovery, Carnegie Institution for Science supports research that expands understanding of the natural world and contributes to the improvement of humanity.

The institution is internationally recognized for its contributions across scientific disciplines, including biology, astronomy, earth sciences, and environmental research.

Position Overview

The Laboratory Technician will play a central role in establishing and maintaining newly relocated laboratory facilities while providing technical and operational support to scientists, postdoctoral researchers, and students.

The successful candidate will help manage laboratory operations, support ongoing research projects, maintain equipment, and ensure compliance with safety standards.

This role combines administrative coordination, laboratory management, and scientific support responsibilities, making it an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in research careers.

Key Responsibilities

Laboratory Setup and Operations

The selected candidate will assist with:

Organizing and optimizing newly established laboratory spaces
Managing laboratory inventories and supplies
Coordinating purchasing and procurement processes
Receiving and stocking laboratory materials
Arranging laboratory waste collection and disposal
Maintaining laboratory records and documentation
Supporting compliance with institutional safety regulations

Microbiology and Molecular Biology Support

Research support duties include:

Preparing media, reagents, buffers, and stock solutions
Culturing and maintaining photosynthetic microorganisms
Monitoring microbial strains and laboratory cultures
Assisting with microbiological experiments and sample processing
Supporting DNA and RNA extraction procedures
Assisting with PCR and sequencing library preparation
Preserving, archiving, and managing biological samples

Equipment Maintenance

The Laboratory Technician will also:

Maintain laboratory instruments and equipment
Coordinate repairs and servicing when required
Monitor incubators, growth chambers, and freezers
Ensure equipment calibration and proper operation

Research and Team Support

Additional responsibilities include:

Providing technical assistance to researchers across three laboratories
Training new laboratory members in standard procedures
Supporting data organization and record management
Participating in laboratory meetings and collaborative projects

Required Qualifications

Applicants should possess:

A Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biological Sciences, Environmental Science, or a related discipline
Experience working in laboratory environments related to microbiology or molecular biology
Familiarity with microbial culturing and aseptic laboratory techniques
Strong organizational and time-management skills
Excellent written and verbal communication abilities
Ability to work independently and collaboratively within research teams

Preferred Qualifications

Candidates with the following experience may be particularly competitive:

Culturing photosynthetic microorganisms such as cyanobacteria and algae
DNA and RNA extraction workflows
PCR and quantitative PCR (qPCR) techniques
Sequencing and genomic laboratory methods
Laboratory inventory management systems
Laboratory safety and regulatory compliance procedures
Supporting multiple research groups within shared laboratory facilities

Professional Development Opportunities

The position offers substantial exposure to advanced scientific research and laboratory operations.

Benefits include:

Working alongside internationally recognized scientists
Exposure to microbiological, molecular, biochemical, and ecological research methods
Professional growth within a dynamic scientific environment
Experience supporting interdisciplinary research programmes
Opportunities to help build and shape newly established laboratory facilities

The role provides valuable practical experience for individuals considering future careers in research, biotechnology, environmental science, or graduate study.

Salary and Employment Details

Key employment information includes:

Position: Laboratory Technician
Location: Pasadena, California, USA
Employment Type: Full-time
Pay Range: US$27–US$32 per hour
Job Family: Laboratory
Job Function: Contributor Level 1

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and will continue until the position is filled.

Application Requirements

Interested applicants should submit:

A cover letter outlining relevant experience and interest in the role
A current curriculum vitae (CV) or résumé
Contact information for two to three professional references

Applications are being accepted immediately, and early submission is encouraged.

Equal Opportunity Commitment

Carnegie Institution for Science is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from qualified individuals regardless of race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability status, veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics.

The institution also provides reasonable accommodations throughout the recruitment process for applicants with disabilities.

Conclusion

The Laboratory Technician position at Carnegie Science offers an excellent opportunity for aspiring scientists to gain hands-on experience in microbial and environmental biology research. With access to state-of-the-art facilities, interdisciplinary collaboration, and mentorship from leading researchers, the role provides a strong foundation for professional growth in the life sciences sector.

Qualified candidates with laboratory experience and a passion for scientific research are encouraged to apply while recruitment remains open.

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.