RESEARCH ASSISTANT IV-LIGHTNER 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 are celebrating 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.  We work hand-in-hand with researchers of the Scripps Research Translational Institute and Calibr to 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.

Celebrating a Century:  https://100.scripps.edu/

POSITION TITLE:  Research Assistant IV 

POSITION SUMMARY:

Plan and conduct complex or novel research projects that involve the performance of non-routine procedures, development of new or improved techniques and evaluation criteria, thorough data analysis and complex interpretations of results; assist in designing experiments; operate sophisticated scientific lab equipment; may plan and conduct a small or average size project or a large portion of a more diverse project; may supervise or provide work direction and training to a small staff of professional-level employees; perform other related duties, tasks and responsibilities as required or assigned. 

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

• Will work under minimal supervision. Independently conducts 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.
• Isolate primary cells from biopsy specimens, maintain cell culture including organoids, and assist with in vivo sample processing as needed.
• Isolate, passage, and characterize organoid cultures.
• Maintain iPSC cultures including differentiation assays and characterization.
• Provide interpretation and analyses of results. Troubleshoot and modify procedures.
• May assist in designing experiments to complete a segment of overall research plan. May provide routine equipment maintenance. May provide guidance/training to department.

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 a minimum of 7 years’ experience. 
• Candidates possessing a master’s degree, 5 years’ experience required. 

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 $72,000 to $86,400 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. Underrepresented individuals are encouraged to apply. 

Salary : $72,000 - $86,400