POSITION TITLE: Research Scientist (PhD) or Senior Research Scientist (PhD), Cell & Chemical Biology

ABOUT US
Calibr-Skaggs Institute for Innovative Medicines, a division of Scripps Research, is a first-of-its-kind, nonprofit translational research institute dedicated to creating the next generation of medicines. Calibr-Skaggs was founded on the principle that the creation of new medicines can be accelerated by pairing world-class biomedical research with state-of-the-art drug discovery and development capabilities. Scripps Research is ranked one of the most influential institutions in the world for its impact on innovation. Our educational and training programs mold talented and committed students and postdocs into leading edge scientists. Leveraging the unique scientific environment of Scripps Research, impacting translational sciences, Calibr-Skaggs has created a portfolio of drug candidates, and is shaping a new paradigm for advancing nonprofit biomedical research to impact patients while re-investing in further innovative research. We expand basic knowledge in the biosciences and use these fundamental advancements to develop profound innovations that improve wellbeing. Calibr-Skaggs' drug development portfolio spans a broad range of human diseases, including cancer, autoimmunity and inflammatory diseases, metabolic and cardiovascular diseases, infectious and neglected diseases, as well as age-related and degenerative diseases. If you have a passion for making a difference, this could be your opportunity to join our transformative team.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The candidate will join an early-stage discovery research group at Calibr. Under guidance and in collaboration with others the candidate will perform research in the areas of cell biology and chemical biology. Specifically, the candidate will work on hit-to-lead drug discovery of small molecule and peptide drug candidates discovered through Calibr's DNA-encoded library (DEL) platform. The primary goal of the research is to discover novel therapies for immunology and inflammation. The drug discovery pipeline at Calibr spans early discovery to IND, and the candidate will be engaged throughout this process. A successful candidate will be self-led and able to work both independently and collaboratively to lead research projects, analyze data and interpret results. The right candidate will be adaptable with a willingness to assist others on a wide range of projects, and enthusiastically learn new skills/techniques.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Work within discovery project teams and with scientists across different functional areas and be expected to present her or his work at project team meetings and to research leadership
• Work independently to design, execute, analyze, interpret and troubleshoot scientific experiments in chemical and cell biology
• Accurately maintain written reports and present results in an organized and timely manner to research leadership
• Communicate effectively with peers and supervisors, foster teamwork and contribute to collaborative efforts
• Strong commitment to quality in research and presentation
• Develop and implement robust cellular assays to support discovery of small molecules as clinical development candidates
• Design and execute research strategies that further our understanding of the mechanisms of novel compounds and targets
• Responsibilities include utilizing disease models to design target validation studies and relevant assays in support of SAR, mechanism of action, biomarker selection, and disease positioning

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Candidates should have strong core competencies in research and an understanding of chemical and cell biology and associated biological techniques and assay development. Direct experience in immunology and inflammation is a plus, but not required. Candidates can expect to apply their basic understanding of research to learning drug discovery and development.

Experience and prior skill sets should include:

• Core knowledge of mammalian cell biology and chemical biology
• Experience in small-molecule or probe-based assay development
• Experience with cell transfection and transduction
• Experience in drug discovery and an understanding of drug-protein interactions
• Experience in cell-based fluorescence imaging
• Background knowledge in either immunology/inflammation

Additional experience that would be considered a plus (but not required):

• Prior work with animal models
• Prior work with peptide drugs
• Experience in protein expression and purification
• Prior work with DNA-encoded libraries

REQUIREMENTS

• Requires a PhD in cell biology, chemical biology, or related area or an equivalent combination of education, training and/or experience from which comparable knowledge, skill and abilities have been attained
• A minimum of 0-3 years of post-graduate experience
• Candidates with prior postdoctoral or industry experience are encouraged to apply
• A strong track record of research productivity
• Highly motivated, creative, and devoted to project goals
• Able to collaborate proficiently and communicate effectively with colleagues and management teams
• Able to contribute in a meaningful way to scientific discourse

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• This position works in a laboratory or vivarium environment.
• Details of established essential functions for this position will be addressed/discussed during the interview process.

COMPENSATION

The expected hiring range for this position is $78,000 to $108,000, 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. Underrepresented individuals are encouraged to apply.