RESEARCH TECHNICIAN

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 Technician

POSITION SUMMARY:

Perform a variety of routine scientific tasks; may prepare test specimens; set up and operate standard lab equipment of moderate complexity.

We are looking for a laboratory technician to carry out general laboratory management duties like ordering supplies and data organization, who will then also perform experiments in EITHER a wet lab or dry lab capacity. We are accepting applications from anyone with expertise in one of these two areas, expertise in both is not required."

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

Record data providing basic analyses and interpretations

Perform a limited number of non-repetitive procedures

lab organizational duties such as ordering reagents, updating inventories, and data management

keep an excellent lab notebook (electronically)

Present their work in lab meeting every few months

Wet lab

perform FRET-based experiments with a plate reader

Prepare large-scale quantities of RNA and protein

general microbiology and molecular biology protocols such as cloning, strain construction, and tissue culture

Dry lab

Use RNA prediction software to inform the work of wet-lab scientists

Use computational docking software, AutoDock, for RNA targeting

Preferred Skills:

High level of organizational skills, especially with data management

Excellent communication

An ability to both work well in a team environment, and demonstrate independence in troubleshooting

Curiosity and a genuine interest in basic academic research

Wet lab

Experience with molecular biology, such as cloning, strain construction, protein expression

Experience with mammalian tissue culture

Dry lab

Proficiency with at least one type of computational modeling software

Proficiency in python

REQUIREMENTS:

Requires a bachelor's degree in a relevant scientific discipline and up to one (1) year of related experience.

Three (3) to six (6) years of related laboratory experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.

COMPENSATION:

The expected hiring range for this position is $18.67 to $24 per hour, 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.