SCIENTIST, ASSOCIATE

Job Description

Job Description

Sanford Burnham Prebys is much more than a research facility and hub for innovation; it’s a vibrant global community of talented scientists and researchers from over 30 countries. This worldwide representation enriches our perspectives and enhances our creative approach to solving complex scientific challenges.

We strive to be leaders not only in biomedical research but also in creating an environment where excellence thrives through collaboration across cultures and backgrounds. Our mission is to advance the biomedical sciences by cultivating the next generation of scientific leaders, providing meaningful opportunities for researchers of all backgrounds to learn, innovate, and make breakthrough discoveries that improve human health.

Together, we translate science into health.

The duties and responsibilities contained in the job description are intended to be examples of the accountabilities for which the person in the position will demonstrate competency through performance. The job description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list. Duties and responsibilities are subject to change and other duties may be assigned as necessary.

Position   Summary:

The position is at the Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute in Dr. Anne Bang’s lab in the Center for Therapeutics Discovery. Her research program is primarily focused on neurological and neuromuscular disease, with the aim of designing human cell-based models and assays that reflect higher order cellular functions and recapitulate disease phenotypes, yet have the throughput and reproducibility required for drug discovery. Dr. Bang additionally leads efforts at the Conrad Prebys Center for Chemical Genomics, which is the Institute’s state-of-the-art drug discovery and development facility, to develop patient cell specific and human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-based disease models for drug screening and drug target identification. 

We are seeking an Associate Scientist to work on exciting projects using hiPSC to model neurological disease, with opportunities for professional growth, multi-institutional and multi-disciplinary collaboration.

The successful candidate will be primarily responsible for supporting research related to developing patient-specific, cell-based models for neurological disease to screen for drugs, validate new targets and chemical molecules, and probe underlying cellular and molecular processes. The projects will focus on the development of models representing neurological disease phenotypes using patient specific induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC), and will utilize high throughput drug screening technologies. 

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Designs and performs experiments and procedures requiring specific or technical knowledge and laboratory techniques with minimal input from supervisor. 
• Performs human pluripotent stem cell culture and assays spanning multiple modalities, including high content imaging, kinetic calcium imaging, multielectrode arrays.
• Independently generates and analyzes data, presents in a concise way and makes suggestions on next logical steps
• Diligently documents performed experiments in lab notebooks and/or designated electronic data system such that other team members can independently reproduce the experimental procedures and data
• Independently operates specialized equipment requiring a moderate degree of skill and able to troubleshoot straightforward problems
• Able to use various sources of literature to practically apply information to work
• Able to assess and resolve issues of moderate complexity
• Presents work to supervisor, lab and/or project meetings
• Contributes to writing of reports and manuscripts, with increasing responsibility over time
• Trains less experienced team members as needed
• Maintains infrastructure of laboratory as required
• Troubleshoots and provides input on possible solutions

Minimum Qualifications :

Education : Bachelor’s or Masters degree in Biomedical Sciences, Biology, Neurobiology, Developmental Biology or a related field and three years’ experience in applied laboratory research (e.g. cell-based assay development, including strong experience with mammalian cell culture) required

Experience : 

• The qualified applicant must also have proven experience in one or more of the following areas: cell biology, developmental biology, stem cell biology, neurobiology, electrophysiology. Research experience working on neuropsychiatric or neurodegenerative diseases would be considered an advantage.
• Experience with human iPSC preferred.

Certifications, Licenses, etc : None

Knowledge, Skills and/or Abilities:

• Have strong organizational and problem-solving skills
• Possess strong attention to detail, analytical, time management, and interpersonal skills
• The ability to work independently, and simultaneously handle multiple projectsin a rapidly changing, deadline-driven environment
• Demonstrated ability to work in an interactive team, as well as working independently.
• Able to learn and operate specialized experimentation equipment within the Prebys Center

Supervisory Responsibilities:

Direct : None

Work Environment:

Laboratories are specialized workplaces where scientific research, experiments, and testing occur. The work environment in laboratories can vary widely depending on the type of lab (e.g., medical, research, clinical, environmental, or industrial) and the specific job role. The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

The laboratory is a controlled environment designed to support various scientific activities. It is equipped with specialized tools and equipment, including but not limited to microscopes, centrifuges, and incubators, ensuring precision and safety during experiments. The space adheres to strict safety protocols, with personal protective equipment (PPE) provided and mandatory for all personnel.

The atmosphere is typically collaborative, fostering teamwork and communication among researchers. Workstations are organized for efficiency, with designated areas for specific tasks such as sample preparation, analysis, and data management. The laboratory maintains a clean and orderly space, emphasizing adherence to hygiene and safety standards.

Regular training sessions and meetings are conducted to keep staff updated on best practices and new technologies. Overall, the laboratory environment is dynamic, requiring adaptability and attention to detail, with a strong focus on innovation and research excellence. Here's an overview of the work environment:

Physical Setting

• Controlled Conditions: Labs are often temperature-controlled and well-ventilated to maintain optimal experimental conditions.
• Cleanliness: Workspaces are kept sterile or clean, especially in clinical and pharmaceutical labs.
• Specialized Equipment: Features advanced tools such as centrifuges, chromatography systems, and spectrometers.

Safety Measures

• Protective Gear: Lab coats, gloves, goggles, and sometimes full-body protective suits are standard.
• Hazard Management: Many labs handle hazardous chemicals, biological agents, or radioactive materials, requiring strict adherence to safety protocols.

Noise Levels

• Can vary from quiet (e.g., in research labs) to moderately noisy (e.g., in industrial testing labs).

Schedule and Workload

• Hours: Typically regular work hours, but extended hours or shift work may be required in clinical or industrial labs.
• Pace: Work can be steady but may become fast-paced during critical experiments or project deadlines.

Physical Requirements:

Working in a laboratory involves specific physical capabilities, including:

• Standing and Walking : Ability to stand for extended periods and move around the facility to attend to animal needs and maintenance.
• Lifting and Carrying : Capability to lift and carry equipment, food supplies, and animal enclosures, typically up to 40 pounds, with proper lifting techniques.
• Manual Dexterity : Proficiency in handling small animals and using various tools and equipment with precision.
• Repetitive Motions : Comfort with repetitive tasks, such as feeding, cleaning, and monitoring animals.
• Bending and Stooping : Flexibility to reach into enclosures, clean habitats, and conduct health checks on animals at various heights.
• Visual Acuity : Ability to observe animal behavior and health, distinguishing subtle changes that may indicate issues.

Benefits That Support You

Sanford Burnham Prebys offers a comprehensive benefits package* designed to support employees’ health, financial security, and overall well-being.

• Health & Welfare: Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability coverage, and employee assistance resources.
• Retirement Savings: A 403(b) retirement plan featuring a generous employer match of $2 for every $1 you contribute (up to 10% of your salary).
• Financial & Lifestyle Benefits: Flexible spending accounts, identity theft protection, and employee discounts on entertainment, travel, and more.
• Time Off & Holidays: Vacation, sick leave, and other applicable leave benefits, plus up to 13 paid holidays per year.
• Wellness & Convenience: Year-round wellness programs and events, free on-site parking, and access to 50 electric vehicle charging stations at competitive rates.

*Benefits eligibility varies by position. Employees must be regularly scheduled to work at least 30 hours per week (0.75 FTE) to be eligible for most benefits.

Work Location : This is an onsite position; candidates must be willing to work onsite in San Diego. Out-of-state applicants must disclose their willingness to relocate.

Compensation:  The expected hiring rate for this position is $67,007.00 - $70,000.00/annually commensurate with Postdoctoral experience.

We welcome talented individuals of all backgrounds regardless of gender, sex, religion, race, national origin, citizenship, age, disability, perceived disability, pregnancy, pregnancy-re