STAFF SCIENTIST (Virology), Chanda 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:  Staff Scientist (Virology)

POSITION SUMMARY:

The successful candidate will lead a team comprising research assistants, graduate students, and postdocs, with a focus on investigating critical molecular circuits at the viral-host interface. They will establish mechanistic, in vivo, and clinical understanding of these interactions' roles in disease and identify novel targets for next-generation therapies against pandemic viruses. The Staff Scientist will hold a pivotal role in leading and expanding projects, interfacing with external collaborators, and mentoring direct reports. They will also spearhead grant and manuscript writing efforts. This is a fully supported, non-tenure track position.

 DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Initiate and execute laboratory research efficiently, devising strategies for innovative antiviral discovery.
• Explore the application of diverse scientific principles and concepts to potential inventions.
• Maintain extensive knowledge of virology and large-scale technologies (e.g., proteomics/chemoproteomics, RNAi/CRISPR, chemical biology, NextGen Sequencing).
• Adhere to safety regulations for handling BSL2- and BSL3-level viruses, human primary cells, and cell lines.
• Conduct accurate data analysis using tools like Excel, Prism, and others, and maintain detailed lab notebook documentation.
• Prepare reports and present research findings at team meetings regularly.
• Contribute to scientific manuscripts, grant applications, and publications for conferences.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Ph.D. degree and 3+ years of postdoctoral experience in biological science is required.
• Strong background in virology or related field is preferred.
• Experience in functional genomics and bioinformatics is advantageous.
• Demonstrated track record of high-impact publications.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with academic and industry partners.
• Proficiency in team management and mentorship.
• Capacity to independently develop and implement new projects and establish collaborative relationships.
• Experience in preparing grant applications and manuscripts.
• Track record of publishing high-impact scientific papers.

​PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

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

LOCATION: La Jolla, California 

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)