Staff Scientist

California Institute of Technology
vision insurance, parental leave, paid time off, sick time, tuition reimbursement
United States, California, Pasadena
Oct 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 Carry out research pertaining to biophysical studies of molecular chaperones in Professor Shan's laboratory. This is an Essential Reporting position. In the event of an emergency on campus, an employee designated as essential reporting has essential job skills that are needed for response and recovery and is expected to report to Campus as soon as possible. Essential Job Duties Purification, biochemical, biophysical, and in vivo characterization of protein complexes. Lead the protein NMR efforts in the lab. Train new lab personnel on protein biochemistry and biophysics. Serve as resource to help other lab members design and troubleshoot experiments. Aide in the preparation and submission of research grants (preparation of preliminary data). Lead in the writing of research articles (preparation of original draft). Other tasks as assigned. Basic Qualifications Ph.D. degree in biochemistry/biophysics with at least 3 years' research experience in protein NMR. The education and experience are required so that the learning curve at the start of the job is not too steep in terms of operating instruments and planning and executing experiments. Knowledge of basic molecular biology techniques including site-directed mutagenesis, DNA cloning, DNA gel electrophoreses, DNA sequencing, DNA purification, and cell transformation. Expertise in macromolecular biochemistry required to produce, purify, and characterize protein complexes, such as affinity, ion-exchange, and gel filtration chromatography. Knowledge and proficiency in most biophysical and analytical assays. Proficient in computational software required for quantitative data analyses, structural visualization, and structural determination. Preferred Qualifications Able to make decisions with respect to setting priorities, formulating hypothesis, designing experimental setup, operating instruments and troubleshooting upon unexpected circumstances. Able to effectively communicate with Dr. Shan and collaborating labs. Motivation, speed of learning and an interest in the area of research are critical for all the work. Excellent oral and written communication skills. Required Documents Resume Hiring Range $59,800 to $85,900 per year 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.