RESEARCH ASSISTANT III- Andersen Lab

ABOUT US: Scripps Research is ranked the most influential institution in the world for its impact on innovation. We expand basic knowledge in the biosciences and use these fundamental advancements to develop profound innovations that improve wellbeing. Our educational and training programs mold talented and committed students and postdocs into leading edge scientists. Scientists in the institute's five academic research departments 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 to better human health around the globe. If you have a passion for making a difference, this could be your opportunity to join our transformative team.

POSITIN TITLE: Research Assistant III

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Scripps Research Institute is currently seeking a Research Assistant for the Andersen Lab in the Department of Translational Medicine (positions at higher levels may also be considered). The Andersen lab conducts diverse projects that integrate immunological and computational genomics approaches to study emerging viruses and the outbreaks they cause, including SARS-CoV-2, Lassa virus, H5N1 influenza virus, Mpox virus, and others. Our work is highly multidisciplinary, incorporating clinical cohort studies, wastewater surveillance, technology development, and field work to investigate these viruses and associated host responses.

We are seeking a highly motivated individual to work collaboratively with other lab members:

• Conduct molecular, cellular, and functional immunological assays using samples from virus-infected cohorts.
• Contribute to the development of new tools for detecting and sequencing viruses in wastewater. In this role, you would play a key part in supporting investigations of adaptive immunity in Lassa fever and COVID-19 by contributing to the optimization and execution of diverse experimental approaches, including systems serology, flow cytometry, and transcriptomics.
• Additionally, you would develop, test, and deploy wastewater sequencing methods and protocols, including for longitudinal monitoring of endemic and emerging pathogen evolution and spread.
• This role provides a unique opportunity to build experience across multiple research disciplines, including systems immunology and viral genomics, while working with a wide range of pathogens and experimental methods. It is ideally suited for candidates with a strong interest in infectious disease research and global health.
• Candidates with prior experience or training in immunology are particularly encouraged to apply.
• This position involves close work with other lab members to design and execute bench-level experiments, present your work at lab meetings, and contribute directly to research publications.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

• Plan and conduct immunological assays on clinical samples, including (but not limited to) multiplexed Luminex assays, functional antibody profiling assays, flow cytometry phenotyping and functional assays, and bulk and/or single-cell RNA sequencing.
• Design and iterative improvement of sequencing schemes for target pathogens from wastewater samples
• Will be responsible for handling and processing of biological samples in BSL2+ lab conditions. Experience in library preparation and NGS sequencing platforms, such as Illumina, AVITI and Oxford Nanopore, is recommended.
• Plan and conduct a small or average-sized project or a large portion of a more diverse project
• Work under minimal supervision. Independently carry out a wide variety of standard laboratory techniques/procedures while using judgment when necessary to adapt standard methods and techniques. Receive instructions on specific assignment objectives, complex features, and possible solutions.
• Present work at lab meetings and participate in academic publications.
• Routine equipment maintenance.
• Work and coordinate research with our many public health partners and research collaborators.
• Provide guidance/training to visiting collaborators.

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 5 years' experience.
• Candidates possessing a master's degree, 3+ years' experience required.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Interested candidates should include a cover letter and up-to-date CV. Before applying, please make sure to read our FAQ: About | Andersen Lab

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

This position works in a laboratory 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 $70,304- $84,375 per year, commensurate with experience. Consideration will be given to experience that exceeds the listed requirements.

COMPREHENSIVE BENEFITS INCLUDE:

• Eligibility for retirement plans with employer contribution.
• 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).
• Flexible work schedules (Dependent on role).
• 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.