RESEARCH ASSISTANT II - Briney Lab

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: Research Assistant II

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Briney Lab is seeking a Research Assistant II to join us in the Department of Immunology and Microbiology at Scripps Research. We use a combination of advanced single cell multi-omics techniques and sophisticated computational tools to deeply explore the antibody response to emerging infectious diseases. We are looking for a highly motivated individual who will contribute to antibody discovery projects against a variety of viral targets, including Lassa, Ebola, HIV, SARS-CoV-2, influenza, astrovirus, and others. The antibodies we discover have potential use as therapeutics or as templates for rational vaccine development.

Primary responsibilities include performing single cell sequencing experiments and functional characterization of monoclonal antibodies (binding, neutralization, etc.). The ideal candidate can work independently, leading antibody discovery campaigns from initial B cell isolation through detailed functional evaluation of recombinantly expressed antibodies. We are members of several large national/international consortia, so excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a collaborative environment are required.

The Briney Lab actively integrates AI and computational tools into our research and we encourage all lab members to use them responsibly. We are especially interested in candidates who are curious or already comfortable using AI assisted tools in a research environment.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

• Generate single cell multi-omics sequencing libraries using the 10x Genomics Chromium platform
• Perform next-generation sequencing experiments using Illumina and Oxford Nanopore systems
• Cloning, recombinant expression, and purification of monoclonal antibodies
• Production of a variety of viral antigens used for antibody isolation and characterization
• Antibody binding assessment by ELISA, BLI, and/or SPR
• Pseudovirus-based neutralization assays
• General lab responsibilities, including maintaining inventory of commonly used reagents/supplies and routine equipment maintenance
• Present work at lab meetings and contribute to peer-reviewed publications
• Work closely with other Briney Lab members and our collaborators
• Work under minimal supervision. Independently conduct a wide variety of standard laboratory techniques/procedures while using judgement when necessary to adapt standard methods and techniques. Receive instructions on specific assignment objectives, complex features, and possible solutions.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Requires a bachelor's degree in a relevant scientific discipline or an equivalent combination of education, training and/or experience from which comparable knowledge, skill and abilities have been attained.
• Requires 3-5 years' experience. Candidates possessing a master's degree, 2+ years' experience required.
• Must have substantial expertise in recombinant protein production and purification.
• Experience with antibody binding assays and pseudovirus neutralization assays is highly preferred.
• Experience with single cell techniques (specifically the 10x Genomics platform) and next-generation sequencing is preferred, but is not required.
• Python programming experience would be a plus, but is not required.

PHYSICAL REQUIRMENTS:

• This position works in a laboratory or vivarium environment.
• 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 $77,000 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.