POSTDOCTORAL ASSOCIATE - Rantalainen - Immunology

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POSITION TITLE:  Postdoctoral Associate

POSITION SUMMARY:

Dr. Kimmo Rantalainen is seeking a Postdoctoral Associate for a research project examining virus glycoproteins and their antibody interactions at the membrane interface. This multi-disciplinary project will examine details of complex antibody epitopes using cutting-edge structural and biophysical approaches. Ideal candidate will be able to work independently, perform experiments with transmembrane proteins, and analyze and present the results at internal and external meetings. Previous experience in using biophysical and structural methods such as SPR, BLI and cryo-EM to study protein-antibody complexes is a plus. 

Project is highly collaborative with emphasis on method development. Broader goals of the project support several ongoing lines of HIV vaccine development. Successful candidate will have access to cutting-edge technologies in biomedical research through wide network of collaborations and have opportunities to participate in training and present their work at national and international conferences. Project is supported by a talented team of scientists and technical staff and encourages creative approaches for solving complicated technical challenges. 

Postdoctoral Associates are appointed positions for the purpose of developing scholarly competence, working under the supervision of a Scripps Research Faculty member.  These appointments are normally not renewed beyond a total of five years.  Postdoctoral Associates cannot apply for external funding either as a Principal Investigator or Co-Principal Investigator without prior approval from a Departmental Chair.  Postdoctoral Associates do not have consulting privileges.

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REQUIREMENTS:

• A Ph.D. in biochemistry, biophysics, immunology, molecular biology, or a related discipline is required. Candidates who are about to defend their thesis are welcome to apply.
• A background in protein biochemistry, membrane proteins, and recombinant protein technologies is preferred.
• Previous experience working with lipids and nanodisc technologies is strong plus
• Previous experience with SPR, cryo‑EM, BLI, or other structural and biophysical methods for protein complex analysis is a plus.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English are required.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to work independently.
• Ability to work effectively in a highly dynamic and competitive environment.

COMPENSATION: Postdoctoral Associates will be hired following the National Institute of Health and California’s exempt salary guidelines, which provide for a starting range of $70,304- $75,353. 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 four medical plan options (including an HSA available option), dental, vision, life insurance, disability, EAP and more.
• Access to Dependent Flexible Spending Accounts
• Free on-site Counseling Center which provides confidential counseling services to benefits-eligible employees
• Pa