ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR, Protein Sciences

POSITION TITLE: Associate Director, Protein Sciences

ABOUT US

Calibr-Skaggs Institute for Innovative Medicines 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. Calibr-Skaggs is a division of Scripps Research, a first-of-its-kind, nonprofit translational research institute dedicated to creating the next generation of medicines. Scripps Research is ranked the most influential institution 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 reinvesting 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 tropical diseases, as well as age-related and degenerative diseases. If you have a passion for making a difference, this is your opportunity to join our transformative team.

POSITION SUMMARY

Calibr-Skaggs is seeking exceptionally talented Associate Director candidates to lead the protein sciences team within the biologics drug discovery group at Calibr-Skaggs. This position will be responsible for directing a group of 4-6 scientists to design, produce, and characterize protein candidates following a drug development process. Additional responsibilities will include leading molecular biology efforts for protein and viral vector programs. The Associate Director candidate will work as part of a larger team of interdisciplinary scientists to profile molecules, select leads, and translate candidate drugs into first-in-human clinical trials. Programs under the responsibility of this position will focus on antibody engineering, including multi-specific antibodies, with support from the antibody discovery group at Calibr-Skaggs. A major focus of the work will be in the areas of immuno-oncology and immunology; however, the role will also provide molecular biology expertise and protein support to a wide range of projects at Calibr-Skaggs including infectious and neglected tropical diseases, metabolic disorders, neuro, and rare disease indications.

Calibr-Skaggs is a highly engaging and collaborative environment, and this position will be encouraged to engage in the seamless flow of ideas within and between research groups. This position is expected to bring with them the proficiencies listed below and can expect to receive world-class training in translational medicine at Calibr-Skaggs. Candidates with exceptional experience in antibody engineering and drug development who are looking to take the next steps in their career and join a high-impact team are encouraged to apply. This position offers significant growth opportunity through promotion structures designed to retain exceptional talent within the Calibr-Skaggs team.

DESIRED EXPERIENCE

• A background in drug development for biologics including deploying developability assessments and engineering drug-like properties into antibodies is required.
• A strong background in protein expression platforms including HEK, CHO, E. coli, is essential. Experience in yeast and insects is advantageous. Upstream process development experience is helpful but not required.
• A strong background in protein purification is essential. The candidate should be proficient at FPLC, HPLC, gravity drip columns, and a wide range of affinity and capture technologies including SEC, IEX, mixed-mode, etc. Downstream process development experience is helpful but not required.
• A strong background in molecular biology including DNA isolation and purification, construct design, and assembly-based cloning is essential.
• A strong background in biophysical characterization of proteins is essential. Important competencies include, but are not limited to, RP, IEX, SEC chromatography, Biacore & octet, and HR-MS of proteins.
• Experience in the IND process is important.
• Experience in medium- and high-throughput protein expression is highly advantageous.
• Experience in tech transfer of processes to CROs is useful.
• Outstanding organization skills and experience in preparing scientific and technical documents including detailed data reports, protocols, and CoTs is important.
• Experience using graphing programs such as Prism, Excel, JMP, or Spotfire software is important.
• Experience in retro-, lenti-, or AAV-based viral vectors is important as the role will include leading molecular biology but is not essential.

REQUIREMENTS

• Master's degree with 10+ years' industry experience or PhD with 6-8+ years' industry experience in protein chemistry, chemical biology, biochemistry, or relevant scientific discipline.
• Previous experience managing a team of scientists
• Industry experience is required.
• 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.
• Details of established essential functions for this position will be addressed/discussed during the interview process.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead a group of 4-6 scientists to design, produce, and characterize protein candidates.
• Lead molecular biology efforts to support protein engineering and viral vector programs within the group.
• Work as part of a larger team of interdisciplinary scientists to profile molecules, select leads, and translate candidates into first-in-human clinical trials.
• Organize data, develop reports, and present findings at meetings with key internal and external stake-holders.
• Engage subject matter experts in troubleshooting challenges as they arise.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for molecular biology and protein-related activities for collaborators.
• Details of established essential functions for this position will be addressed/discussed during the interview process.

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 position is $125,000 to $180,000, commensurate with experience.

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.