RESEARCH ASSISTANT II - Chanda Lab

ABOUT US:

Calibr-Skaggs Institute for Innovative Medicines was founded on the principle that the creation of new medicines can be accelerated by pairing world-class biomedical research with state-of-the-art drug discovery and development capabilities. Calibr-Skaggs is a division of Scripps Research, a first-of-its-kind, nonprofit translational research institute dedicated to creating the next generation of medicines. Scripps Research is ranked the most influential institution in the world for its impact on innovation. Our educational and training programs mold talented and committed students and postdocs into leading-edge scientists. Leveraging the unique scientific environment of Scripps Research, impacting translational sciences, Calibr-Skaggs has created a portfolio of drug candidates, and is shaping a new paradigm for advancing nonprofit biomedical research to impact patients while reinvesting in further innovative research. We expand basic knowledge in the biosciences and use these fundamental advancements to develop profound innovations that improve wellbeing. Calibr-Skaggs’ drug development portfolio spans a broad range of human diseases, including cancer, autoimmunity and inflammatory diseases, metabolic and cardiovascular diseases, infectious and neglected tropical diseases, as well as age-related and degenerative diseases. If you have a passion for making a difference, this could be your opportunity to join our transformative team.

The Chanda and Götte groups are interested in the discovery and development of antiviral drugs directed against viruses with high epidemic potential. The focus is on small molecule inhibitors of viral polymerases. We consider a multidisciplinary approach, including medicinal chemistry, biochemistry, structural biology and virology. Through our Calibr arm, we seek to discover compounds with a broader spectrum of antiviral activity within and across viral families associated with human disease. Structure-activity relationship analyses and mechanistic studies provide guidance for drug development efforts.

Our team’s transformative research and the unique environment of the Scripps will cultivate the next generation of scientific leaders.

POSITION TITLE: Research Assistant II

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Chanda and Götte Labs are seeking a highly motivated individual to support a mechanism-driven approach to antiviral drug discovery and development efforts. Under this role, the ideal candidate will work in a team environment to support the development of workflows designed to select and evaluate compounds with promising properties.

RESPOSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

• Molecular cloning and/or synthetic virology.
• Protein expression in bacteria and insect cells.
• Protein purification.
• Execute biochemical assays in gel- and plate-based formats
• Execute structure-activity relationship studies
• Data analysis and lab notebook documentation
• The position requires great attention to detail, dexterity of the hands, troubleshooting capability and flexibility to adapt to a fast-paced environment

REQUIREMENTS:

• Requires a bachelor’s degree in biology, biochemistry, microbiology, or related field a relevant scientific discipline.
• Requires 3-5 years’ experience. Candidates possessing a master’s degree, 2+ years’ experience required.
• Experience in working with proteins is required.
• Experience with polymerases or generally with enzymes is preferred.
• Experience with (anti)viral assays in cell cultures is preferred.
• Experience with database interface and data analysis using Excel and Prism is preferred.
• Experience with automated liquid handling instruments is a plus.
• Experience with gene expression analysis (RT-qPCR, NGS, etc.) is a plus
• Excellent oral and written communications skills

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

• Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
• Letter of recommendation and/or at least one professional reference is required.

PHYSICAL REQUIRMENTS:

• This position works in a laboratory or vivarium environment.
• The position requires great attention to detail, dexterity of the hands.
• 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 $70,304 to $79,500 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.