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: Postdoctoral Associate

POSITION SUMMARY:

A Postdoctoral Associate position is available in the Integrative Structural and Computational Biology Department in the Ward Lab, focusing on vaccine design against emerging viruses, including alphaviruses. the Ward Lab specializes in evaluating antibody-mediated immune responses, using cryo-electron microscopy, against human pathogens. Several contributions have been made by the Ward Lab to vaccine design against viral pathogens (Ebola, HIV, Influenza, SARS-CoV-2, Lassa) and parasitic infections (Malaria).

The person filling this position is expected to play a key role in the multi-disciplinary project on emerging viruses, working with samples from collaborators to produce dozens of cryo-EM structures of viruses and viral antigens, including in complex with antibodies and receptors. The candidate will also assist with manuscript preparation and grant reporting, plus have opportunities to work on other projects in the lab.

Postdoctoral appointees at Scripps Research are valued for their unique interests and strengths as they conduct their studies alongside over 200 internationally renowned faculty. Postdocs are supported by specialized programming from the institute'sCareer and Professional Development Office. We see career and professional development as integral to advanced research training for PhD and postdocs, and we provide tailored resources for crafting high-quality manuscripts and grant proposals, planning for your career, and developing your professional skills. Our International Services Office offers expert support for our international scholars, who come to Scripps Research from around the world with a passion and commitment to improving human health.

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.

Make Scripps Research your next step to advance and develop your career. Click here to learn more about our Postdoctoral Program and Services:

https://education.scripps.edu/postdoctoral/

REQUIREMENTS:

• A Ph.D. degree in molecular biology, structural biology, virology, microbiology, immunology, biophysics or a related discipline is required.
• Strong background in virology, immunology, structural biology and/or antibody design are preferred.
• Significant expertise in cryo-electron microscopy (sample preparation, data collection, processing and model building) is a plus.
• A fundamental background in recombinant protein expression, purification and analysis is expected
• Basic understanding of a Linux terminal
• Excellent communication skills in English, verbal and written
• Excellent organizational skills and the ability to work independently
• Ability to work in a collaborative environment and prepare research updates regularly

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 $68,000- $73,230. 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).
• Competitive vacation and sick leave policies.
• Free, on-site Counseling Center which provides confidential counseling services to benefits-eligible employees and their family members.
• Free, on-site parking.
• Pet Insurance

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.