New

Research Assistant

California Institute of Technology
vision insurance, parental leave, paid time off, sick time, tuition reimbursement
United States, California, Pasadena
Jun 26, 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 We seek a Research Assistant to assist in comparative characterization of separation methods and protocols for the components of the resin produced by the guayule plant. The primary tasks will include preparing separation columns, performing column separations, collecting fractions, and performing UV-vis spectroscopy and thin layer chromatography on the samples. The Research Assistant will prepare written protocols for the most successful separation conditions. As needed, the Research Assistant will perform distillation and/or recrystallization experiments. The Research Assistant will perform calculations relevant to scaling up the separation process(es). In addition, the Research Assistant will provide general support to the group as needed, for example, cleaning glassware, picking up deliveries from the stockroom, and lab cleaning. Essential Job Duties Assemble and fill a silica gel column. Safely disassemble a silica gel column, dispose of waste, and clean the column. Perform column separations, carefully recording observations and collecting fractions. Assist in sample preparation, including handling chemicals, measuring and mixing substances, by following established procedures and iteratively improving procedures. Apply spectroscopic methods and thin layer chromatography to characterize the fractions. Perform calculations related to scale up by orders of magnitude from 0.1g to 1kg scale. Support a variety of other projects by providing general assistance when needed. Maintain a laboratory notebook to document planned experiments, protocols, experimental observations, data analysis, and overall progress. Adhere to safety guidelines and protocols, promoting a safe working environment. Will be using a fume hood, including assembling a column up to 1m tall and disassembling the column, which requires holding the glass column while positioning and tightening the clamp precisely to secure the glass column without breaking it. Basic Qualifications Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering. Basic knowledge of and interest in separation processes. Proficient in at least one coding language for data analysis, preferably Python. Experience using hand tools to assemble and disassemble physical objects (e.g., wrench, screwdriver, electric drill). Experience using a UV-vis spectroscopy, FTIR spectroscopy, 1H NMR spectroscopy, liquid chromatography, and mass spectrometry. Strong communication skills. Self-motivated and willing to learn new concepts and skills. Committed to maintaining a safe laboratory environment. Teamwork, communication skills, and attention to detail are essential. Ability to lift up to 20 pounds. Preferred Qualifications Experience reading academic journal articles and technical writing. Ability to draft written instructions that are clear and concise. Interest in technologies that are environmentally and economically sustainable. Generally curious, creative, and willing to collaborate with team members to analyze and interpret data, engage in discussions, and propose original ideas. Critical thinking and ability to give criticism and suggestions in a positive and effective way. 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.