Research Tech III/IV - Saphire Lab

9420 Athena Cir, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA Job Description Posted Monday, June 1, 2026 at 7:00 AM The laboratory of Professor Erica Ollmann Saphire ( at the La Jolla Institute for Immunology (LJI) is seeking a full-time Laboratory Research Technician, who will participate in novel vaccine design and therapeutic antibody discovery against pathogens that threaten global health, particularly Ebola virus and its relatives, Measles virus, and the Herpesviruses like Epstein Barr virus and Cytomegalovirus, which together cause cancers, multiple sclerosis and birth defects. Many of these viruses still lack approved therapeutics, and need novel protein designs to provide effective and broad protection. Using state‑of‑the‑art structural biology and protein engineering, the Saphire lab has successfully developed best‑in‑class immunogens and discovered exciting new antibodies. Relevant skills include molecular cloning, protein expression and purification, and familiarity with mAb discovery and analysis. The ideal candidate would be an integral part of a strong team of scientists and work in a positive environment that provides mentorship and fosters talent while encouraging growth and learning. Responsibilities Under the supervision of Ph.D. level lab scientists, the research technician will assist in performing research in protein engineering and antibody discovery. The research technician will perform a range of experiments based on established lab SOPs, including molecular cloning, tissue culture, recombinant protein and antibody expression and purification, and help to support daily lab operations. You will be fully trained on experimental SOPs and have the opportunity to provide creative contribution based on your skill level and progress. Qualifications B.S. or higher in biological sciences or biomedicine. 3+ years of experience in basic biological experiments, e.g., molecular cloning, tissue culture, recombinant protein and antibody purification. Accurate record keeping and organizational skills. Oral and written communication skills necessary for team work. Desire to improve scientific skills and learn from teammates. Preferred qualifications Previous laboratory experience in molecular biology, virology or antibody discovery. Special Conditions Must be willing to work with animal materials, e.g., sera, tissues. How to Apply A brief cover letter explaining what you could contribute and get from the Saphire Lab. Your resume/CV. Two references. La Jolla Institute for Immunology (LJI) offers a collegial work environment that emphasizes collaboration, teamwork and creativity. Full-time employment at LJI includes a competitive salary, medical/dental/vision benefits, paid sick leave, and contributions to a retirement plan (403B). For the last decade, LJI has been ranked as one of the best places to work in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal. The Institute hosts world‑renowned faculty and over 80 postdoctoral researchers with scientists from over 30 countries. LJI is located in the Science Research Park on the campus of UC San Diego, providing easy access to the San Diego life sciences community and all that the area has to offer. LJI provides Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment, and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type, regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, marital status, disability status, genetics, medical conditions, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, reproductive health decisions, or pregnancy, or any other condition protected by state and local laws. This applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruitment, hiring, placing, training, promotion, compensation, benefits, transfers, educational assistance, terminations, layoffs, recalls, transfers, leaves of absences, and social and recreational programs. La Jolla Institute is committed to compensation that is externally competitive and internally equitable. We validate this commitment by conducting regular market analyses to remain competitive with organizations of similar size in the nonprofit, independent research sector. Compensation decisions consider a variety of factors including experience, education, unique skill sets, organizational need, and internal equity. 9420 Athena Cir, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA #J-18808-Ljbffr La-Jolla-Institute-For-Immunology