Senior Research Scientist (PHD) OR Principal Scientist - Drug Discovery & Virology (Chanda Lab)

Position Title: Senior Research Scientist (PHD) OR Principal Scientist - Drug Discovery & Virology

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 successful candidate will lead a team - including research assistants, graduate students and postdocs - focused on investigating critical molecular circuits at the viral-host interface, establishing mechanistic, in vivo, and clinical understanding of the role of these interactions in disease, and identifying novel targets for the development of next-generation therapies targeting viruses of pandemic concern. The Staff Scientist will play an important intellectual, technical and scientific role in leading and expanding projects in this area, and will interface with external collaborators while mentoring direct reports. They will also lead grant-writing and manuscript-writing efforts. This is a fully supported, non-tenure track position.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Initiate and execute laboratory research in a timely manner, and develop strategies to discover innovative antivirals
• Investigate the feasibility of applying a wide variety of scientific principles and concepts to potential inventions
• Maintain broad knowledge of virology and large-scale technologies (proteomics/chemoproteomics, RNAi/CRISPR, chemical biology, NextGen Sequencing, etc.)
• Adhere to the safety regulations to handle BSL2- and BSL3-level viruses, human primary cells, and cell lines
• Accurate data analysis using Excel, Prism, and other tools, and lab notebook documentation
• Preparation of reports and presentation of research results at regular team meetings
• Make contributions to scientific manuscripts, grant applications, and publications at conferences
• Details of established essential functions for this position will be addressed/discussed during the interview process.

Requirements:

• Ph.D. degree and 6+ years of postdoctoral experience in biological science is required
• Strong background in virology or related field is preferred
• Functional genomics and bioinformatics experience are a plus
• Strong track record of high-impact publications
• Ability to work with academic and industry collaborators
• Ability to manage and mentor a team
• Independently develop and implement new projects and establish enabling collaborations
• Prepare grant applications and manuscripts
• Publish high-impact scientific papers

Physical Requirements:

May include: Stationary position for an extended period of time, traverse campus/facility as needed, operate machinery such as computer, phone, copy machine; exposure to cold or hot temperatures.

Compensation:

The expected hiring range for this multi-level position is $90,000 to $150,000, 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.