Mid Level Field Research Assistant Jobs

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 Research Assistant will support the High Throughput Screening Core’s Year 4 antiviral drug discovery efforts. Responsibilities include assisting with ongoing screening campaigns against coronavirus NSP13 helicase and Dengue NS1, and with finalizing DNA-encoded library and fragment-based screens. The Research Assistant will also help implement counter-screens for off-target effects and cytotoxicity, ensuring that only high-quality hits advance. Day-to-day work includes assay setup and execution in microplate formats, compound handling, data collection, and documentation.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

• Human primary cell and cell line culture, preparation of media and reagents.
• Compound handling and plate inventory.
• Develop in vitro assays for BSL2-level viruses to enable drug discovery flowcharts.
• Execute high-throughput assays against for screening campaigns.
• The position requires great attention to detail, dexterity of the hands, troubleshooting capability and flexibility to adapt to a fast-paced environment.
• Provide interpretation and analyses of results. Troubleshoot and modify procedures.
• Perform general lab duties as required or assigned.

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.

Physical Requirements:

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.

Equal Opportunity Employer

This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.