POSTDOCTORAL ASSOCIATE - Rantalainen - Immunology

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 celebrated 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. Scripps Research encompasses two elite and highly innovative institutes, the Calibr-Skaggs Institute for Innovative Medicines and Scripps Research Translational Institute, which 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.

POSITION TITLE: Postdoctoral Associate POSITION SUMMARY:

Dr. Kimmo Rantalainen is seeking a Postdoctoral Associate for a research project examining virus glycoproteins and their antibody interactions at the membrane interface. This multi-disciplinary project will examine details of complex antibody epitopes using cutting-edge structural and biophysical approaches. Ideal candidate will be able to work independently, perform experiments with transmembrane proteins, and analyze and present the results at internal and external meetings. Previous experience in using biophysical and structural methods such as SPR, BLI and cryo-EM to study protein-antibody complexes is a plus.

Project is highly collaborative with emphasis on method development. Broader goals of the project support several ongoing lines of HIV vaccine development. Successful candidate will have access to cutting-edge technologies in biomedical research through wide network of collaborations and have opportunities to participate in training and present their work at national and international conferences. Project is supported by a talented team of scientists and technical staff and encourages creative approaches for solving complicated technical challenges.

Applicants must submit as an attachment contact information for two professional references as part of the application process. The hiring manager may contact references for final candidates during the selection process.

Postdoctoral Associates are appointed positions for the purpose of developing scholarly competence, working under the supervision of a Scripps Research Faculty member. These appointments are normally not renewed beyond a total of five years. Postdoctoral Associates cannot apply for external funding either as a Principal Investigator or Co-Principal Investigator without prior approval from a Departmental Chair. Postdoctoral Associates do not have consulting privileges.

Make Scripps Research your next step to advance and develop your career. Click here to learn more about our Postdoctoral Program and Services: https://education.scripps.edu/postdoctoral/

REQUIREMENTS:

• A Ph.D. in biochemistry, biophysics, immunology, molecular biology, or a related discipline is required. Candidates who are about to defend their thesis are welcome to apply.
• A background in protein biochemistry, membrane proteins, and recombinant protein technologies is preferred.
• Previous experience working with lipids and nanodisc technologies is strong plus
• Previous experience with SPR, cryoEM, BLI, or other structural and biophysical methods for protein complex analysis is a plus.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English are required.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to work independently.
• Ability to work effectively in a highly dynamic and competitive environment.

COMPENSATION: Postdoctoral Associates will be hired following the National Institute of Health and California's exempt salary guidelines, which provide for a starting range of $70,304- $75,353. Consideration will be given to experience that exceeds the listed requirements.

COMPREHENSIVE BENEFITS INCLUDE:

• Eligibility for retirement plans with employer contribution.
• Full suite of Health and Welfare plans including four medical plan options (including an HSA available option), dental, vision, life insurance, disability, EAP and more.
• Access to Dependent Flexible Spending Accounts
• Free on-site Counseling Center which provides confidential counseling services to benefits-eligible employees
• Paid Time Off - 5 days annually
• Free, on-site parking.
• Pet Insurance

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.