ABOUT US: Scripps Research is a nonprofit biomedical institute ranked as one of the most influential in the world for its impact on innovation. We are celebrating our 100-year legacy in 2024. This significant milestone marks a century of seminal discoveries in immunology, infectious diseases (such as COVID-19, flu, HIV), neuroscience, heart disease, cancer, and more. Located in La Jolla, California, the institute houses six research departments, multiple Nobel laureates, a top-ranked graduate school and a leading postdoctoral training program.  We work hand-in-hand with researchers of the Scripps Research Translational Institute and Calibr to merge foundational studies in biology, chemistry and computer science with translational science to produce pioneering drugs and advances in digital and precision medicine. Together, we cultivate new scientific leaders and expand the frontiers of knowledge to deliver medical breakthroughs impacting human health around the globe. If you have a passion for making a difference, this could be your opportunity to join our transformative team.

Celebrating a Century:  https://100.scripps.edu/
 

POSITION TITLE:  Research Assistant II
 

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Schiffner lab at Scripps Research is seeking a highly motivated and qualified Research Associate II with experience molecular biology. The successful candidate will be responsible for high-throughput screening of novel immunogen candidates using protein expression in human cell culture and screening by Biolayer interferometry and assist in the further optimization of the platform. The successful candidate will also assist in directed evolution experiments, including DNA library assembly, transformation/transfection of human or yeast cells, staining for fluorescence-activated cell sorting and sequencing. The candidate will perform these duties smoothly while handling additional matters as they arise.

 RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

Support projects and team members by accurately performing high-throughput protein expression and screening of mammalian cell culture supernatants using biolayer interferometry. Troubleshoot technical and instrumentation issues and recommend solutions independently and/or in collaboration with others. Assemble DNA libraries using standard molecular biology techniques and transform bacterial or yeast cells or transfection of human cells. With the scientific teams, stain cells for fluorescence-activated cell sorting. Work independently while adhering to established protocols. Troubleshoot technical and instrumentation issues and recommend solutions independently and/or in collaboration with others. Plan and execute experiments accurately and efficiently to meet deadlines. Clear written and oral communication skills to support team members and pass on results and troubleshoot problems. Excellent attention to details, self-motivation, and creative thinking will be essential. Prepare and follow standard operating procedures, batch records, and other process documentation. Responsible for ordering any essential consumables within the assigned roles. Other non-routine tasks in support of research may be assigned in the future.

REQUIREMENTS:

Requires a bachelor’s degree in a relevant scientific discipline or an equivalent combination of education, training and/or experience from which comparable knowledge, skill and abilities have been attained. Re Requires 3-5 years’ experience. Candidates possessing a master’s degree, 2+ years’ experience required. Minimum 1 year of protein expression in mammalian cells Experience with biolayer interferometry is beneficial Experience with fluorescence-activated cell sorting is beneficial Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite Proficient in GraphPad Prism is beneficial Demonstrated analytical thinking, quick learner, and good listener with ability to follow oral and written instructions and protocols Ability to work both as part of a team and independently, be enthusiastic and take initiative in spearheading project goals with guidance from senior scientists 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

This position requires standing and working at the bench 50% of the time. It requires sitting, standing, walking, lifting, carrying, reaching, pushing, and pulling. Further details of the physical requirements of established essential functions for this position will be addressed/discussed during the interview process.

COMPENSATION: The expected hiring range for this position is $66,560 to $75,000 per year, commensurate with experience. Consideration will be given to experience that exceeds the listed requirements.

COMPREHENSIVE BENEFITS INCLUDE:
• Employer Contributed Retirement Plan – Depending on eligibility, employees receive an employer contributed retirement plan (no employee contribution required) and the option to contribute to a 403(b) (which is similar to a 401(k) using your own pre or post-tax dollars)
• Full Suite of Health and Welfare plans including three medical plan options (including an HSA available option), dental, vision, life insurance, disability, EAP and more
• Access to Flexible Spending Accounts (Medical/Dependent Care)
• Competitive vacation and sick leave policies
• Free, on-site parking

The above statements describe the level of work performed and expected in general terms.  The statements are not intended to list all the responsibilities, duties and/or skills required of employees so classified, and the content herein is subject to change due to the business needs of Scripps Research, with or without notice.   Furthermore, nothing in this job description shall be interpreted to be in conflict with or to eliminate or modify in any way the employment-at-will status of Scripps Research staff.  

EEO STATEMENT:

The Scripps Research Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We promote diversity of thought, culture and background in the fields of science. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic or status. Underrepresented individuals are encouraged to apply.