STAFF SCIENTIST - Irvine Lab

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: Staff Scientist POSITION SUMMARY: Working under the direction of the Lab Director, this position supports the daily operations of an academic research laboratory while conducting research to advance HIV and cancer vaccine studies. Responsibilities include designing and performing wet lab experiments, conducting hands‑on animal studies across multiple animal models, documenting experimental results, and contributing to translational research, including preclinical studies that support clinical trials. The role is responsible for maintaining accurate and up‑to‑date laboratory records, including sample inventories, protocols, and research documentation, ensuring information is well organized and accessible to the research team. The incumbent also provides hands‑on training and mentorship to postdoctoral fellows, graduate students, undergraduate researchers, and laboratory technicians to promote the consistent application of established laboratory techniques and protocols. In addition, this position serves as the laboratory's Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) representative by training new personnel on laboratory safety practices and ensuring compliance with institutional and regulatory safety requirements. The role also acts as the primary liaison between the laboratory and the animal facility, helping to ensure adherence to approved animal use protocols. Success in this position requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, effective collaboration, and a commitment to fostering a safe, inclusive, and team‑oriented research environment.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Contribute to development of processes to synthesize and QC novel adjuvants. Cell culture: maintaining cell lines by passaging, splitting and cryopreserving cells; monitoring cell health and viability through microscopy; treating cells with experimental compounds. Flow Cytometry: isolating specific cell populations and development of plate based FACS assays for small molecule screening. Western blotting, transfections, qPCR, and microscopy. Designing research questions and experimental protocols. Collaborating with other researchers to discuss findings, develop new projects and writing manuscripts.

REQUIREMENTS

Ph.D. in an appropriate scientific discipline required. Minimum of 2 years postdoctoral experience. 4 years of experience working in a research laboratory. Experience with immunoassays (ELISA, ELISPot, flow cytometry). Strong technical documentation and scientific record‑keeping skills. Excellent interpersonal, verbal communication, organizational, and time‑management skills. Ability to work effectively and collaboratively as part of a diverse, multidisciplinary research team.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

This position works in a laboratory or vivarium environment. Further details of the physical requirements of established essential functions for this position will be addressed/discussed during the interview process.

COMPENSATION

The expected hiring range for this position is $78,000 to $90,272 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr Scripps Research Translational Institute