Research Scientist - Laboratory of Dr. Sreekanth Chalasani

The Salk Institute is seeking a highly skilled Research Scientist with extensive experience in tissue culture, gene delivery systems, and ultrasound-mediated mechanotransduction. The successful candidate will lead and contribute to cutting‑edge research on the application of mechanosensitive proteins for therapeutic benefit, the development of ultrasound transducers for targeted cellular activation, and gene delivery strategies for specific cell types. This role requires a strong background in cell biology, molecular techniques, and experimental design, as well as leadership capabilities to guide research initiatives and mentor junior team members.

Who We Are

The Salk Institute is an internationally renowned research institution that values all members of our scientific community. We seek bold and interactive leaders passionate about exploring new frontiers in science. Our collaborative community embraces perspectives across discipline, professional acumen, and unique life experiences, fostering innovation, and a sense of belonging. Together, we strive to improve the wellbeing of humanity through groundbreaking research.

Founded by Jonas Salk, developer of the first safe and effective polio vaccine, the Institute is an independent, nonprofit research organization and architectural landmark: small by choice, intimate by nature, and fearless in the face of any challenge. Salk's vibrant community has many talented individuals from varied backgrounds, each playing a crucial role in driving our mission forward. From visionary leaders to dedicated administrators and brilliant faculty members, the Institute is united by a shared passion for scientific exploration and innovation.

What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be

• Lead and oversee research projects involving tissue culture, gene delivery, and ultrasound stimulation of mechanosensitive proteins.

• Design and implement experimental protocols for evaluating ultrasound‑controlled cellular responses in vitro and in vivo.

• Direct the development and validation of adeno‑associated viral vector gene delivery systems for targeted transgene expression.

• Investigate and characterize novel mechanically activated ion channels and receptors.

• Develop and validate custom ultrasound transducers for non‑invasive targeted delivery in animal models.

• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to integrate biophysical and molecular approaches in mechanotransduction research.

• Analyze and interpret complex datasets, contributing to high‑impact publications and funding proposals.

• Train and mentor junior researchers, fostering an innovative and productive research environment.

• Ensure compliance with institutional research protocols and data management policies.

• Perform other related duties as assigned by management.

What we Require

• Ph.D. in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biomedical Engineering, or a related field with postdoctoral research experience required.

• Required Skills & Experience:

• Extensive hands‑on experience with mammalian cell culture, gene editing, and viral vector gene delivery.

• Expertise in molecular biology techniques such as PCR, Western blotting, flow cytometry, and immunocytochemistry.

• Strong background in mechanobiology, biophysics, or ultrasound‑mediated cellular activation.

• Proven track record of research excellence, including peer‑reviewed publications in relevant fields.

• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research team.

• Experience in mentoring junior scientists and managing research projects.

• Excellent problem‑solving, organizational, and communication skills.

• Computer skills required: Microsoft Office, MATLAB or any programming language)

• Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with in vivo animal models, including ultrasound‑mediated gene therapy.

• Knowledge of computational modeling for biophysical and cellular analysis.

• Grant writing experience and demonstrated ability to secure research funding.

• Familiarity with bioinformatics tools for gene expression and mechanosensitive protein analysis.

What We Can Offer

The expected pay range for this position is $69,000 to $85,000 per annum. Salk Institute provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of what the institute reasonably expects to pay for a position. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location, and external market pay for comparable jobs.

Benefits

Salk Institute offers competitive benefits, including medical, dental, vision, retirement, paid time off, tuition reimbursement, patient advocacy services, and transit/parking program.

Salk Values

The Salk Community, both scientists and administrators, worked together to define values that we believe sup