Part Time Biochemistry Research Assistant

Berkeley Lab’s (LBNL) Molecular Biophysics and Integrated Bioimaging (MBIB)  is hiring a Part Time Research Assistant to join the laboratories of the Yano, Yachandra, and Kern Groups!

In this exciting role, you will perform standard, routine, and experimental procedures by supporting biochemical preparation, biophysical study of protein Photosystem I and Photosystem II, and assist with basic tasks on diffraction data obtained from these proteins. 

This position has an anticipated start date of June 1, 2026.

We’re here for the same mission, to bring science solutions to the world. Join our team and YOU will play a supporting role in our goal to address global challenges! Have a high level of impact and work for an organization associated with 17 Nobel Prizes!

Why join Berkeley Lab?

We invest in our employees by offering a total rewards package you can count on:

• Exceptional health benefits.
• Generous paid time off, sick time off, and holidays.
• A culture where you’ll belong - we are invested in our teams!

What You Will Do:

• Assist with culturing cyanobacteria for the purification of Photosystem I and Photosystem II samples in various intermediate states for study by X-ray spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction.
• Assist with the purification and characterization of Photosystem I and Photosystem II samples in different intermediate states for study by X-ray spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction.
• Develop knowledge and understanding of X-ray diffraction data acquisition through direct training and instructions from the Principal Investigator (PI).
• Perform routine steps to support the analysis of X-ray diffraction data.
• Participate in group meetings and seminars.
• Maintain an accurate and detailed scientific logbook of all experiments performed to ensure reproducibility of results.

What is Required:

• General knowledge of protein biochemistry, including conducting experiments.
• General knowledge of basic laboratory practices, including safety protocol.
• Strong organizational skills, including the ability to maintain records and manage data.
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to follow written laboratory protocols and work within an interdisciplinary research team. 

Desired Skills/Knowledge:

• A Bachelor’s Degree (or equivalent knowledge/training) in Biochemistry or a related field.
• Experience in protein purification using chromatography.
• Experience in protein crystallography.

Additional Information:

• Application Date: Priority consideration will be given to candidates who apply with a resume and a cover letter describing their interest in this position by Thursday, May 28 2026. Applications will be accepted until the job posting is removed.

• Appointment Type: This is a Part Time 30 hour per week, non-exempt from overtime pay (hourly paid), 1 year, Term appointment with the possibility of extension or conversion to Career appointment based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds and ongoing operational needs.
• Salary Range: This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes and has a budgeted salary range of $23.97 - $26.69 hourly for job code 588.1. It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the range for a position. Salary will be commensurate with the final candidate’s qualification and experience, including skills, knowledge, relevant education, certifications, and aligned with the internal peer group (if applicable, and union contract agreement).
• Background Check: This position is subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.
• Work Modality: This position will be performed onsite at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, located at 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA 94720. Work schedules are dependent on business needs. This position will typically operate Monday to Friday during standard business hours from 8:00 am - 5:00 pm. A REAL ID or other acceptable form of identification is required to access Berkeley Lab sites (for more information click here).
• Relocation Assistance: This position is not eligible for relocation assistance.
• Work Authorization: Candidates must be eligible to work in the U.S. at the time of hire. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Want to learn more about working at Berkeley Lab? Please visit: careers.lbl.gov

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: The foundation of Berkeley Lab is our Stewardship Values: Team Science, Service, Trust, Innovation, and Respect; and we strive to build community with these shared values and commitments. Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We heartily welcome applications from all who could contribute to the Lab's mission of leading scientific discovery, excellence, and professionalism. In support of our rich global community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories under State and Federal law.

Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.