RESEARCH ASSISTANT I-Zhu Lab

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. 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 I

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Zhu Lab is seeking a highly motivated individual to join a team of researchers to support vaccine development for diverse viral pathogens such as HIV, HCV, filovirus, RSV, influenza, and Coronavirus.

The experimental methods used in the lab include molecular biology, biochemistry, protein production and purification, structural determination techniques such as x-ray crystallography and electron microscopy, animal immunization, virus culture and neutralization, serological analysis, flow cytometry, single cell analysis, and next-generation sequencing of immune repertoires.

This individual will contribute to different projects assisting the Staff Scientist and Principal Investigator and may also be recognized as a contributor to the resulting publications. Assignments will include performing various molecular biology and protein experiments such as DNA cloning, PCR, site-directed mutagenesis, bacterial transformation, protein analysis including purification and Western Blot, SDS-PAGE, and BN-PAGE, mammalian cell culture and transfection, aseptic techniques, all the while following predefined protocols. While molecular biology or protein production will be the main responsibilities for this position, individuals may have opportunities to learn advanced assays in virology and immunology and participate in vaccine evaluation studies.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

• Work under general supervision. Assistance given for unusual problems and normally reviewed for application of sound professional judgement
• Ability to independently conduct a wide variety of standard laboratory techniques/procedures. Some ability to use judgement when necessary to adapt standard methods and techniques. Receive instructions on specific assignment objectives, complex features, and possible solutions.
• May provide interpretation and initial analyses of results.
• Limited ability to troubleshoot and modify procedures.
• May assist in designing experiments to complete a segment of overall research plan.
• Details of established essential functions for this position will be addressed/discussed during the interview process.

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.
• Requires 1-3 years experience.
• Details of established essential functions for this position will be addressed/discussed during the interview process.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• This position works in a laboratory environment.
• Details of established essential functions for this position will be addressed/discussed during the interview process.

COMPENSATION:

The expected hiring range for this position is $20.67 to $25.06 per hour, 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.

Leader - Inspires teammates to follow them
Detail Oriented - Capable of carrying out a given task with all details necessary to get the task done well
Dedicated - Devoted to a task or purpose with loyalty or integrity
Team Player - Works well as a member of a group

Ability to Make an Impact - Inspired to perform well by the ability to contribute to the success of a project or the organization
Growth Opportunities - Inspired to perform well by the chance to take on more responsibility

Bachelors of Biochemistry (preferred)
Bachelors of Microbiology (preferred)
Bachelors of Biology (preferred)
Bachelors of Bioinformatics (preferred)
Bachelors of Biochemistry (preferred)
Bachelors of Computational Chemistry (preferred)
Bachelors of Molecular Cell Sciences (preferred)

1 - 3 years: 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. Requires 1-3 years of experience, e.g., as undergraduate internship. (required)