RESEARCH ASSISTANT I - Irvine Lab

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.

POSITION TITLE: Research Assistant I

Position Summary: The Irvine Lab at Scripps Research is currently recruiting a dynamic, passionate professional with a strong interest in advancing vaccine research and development. The Research Assistant I will work under supervision of a senior lab member and provide technical assistance with immuno-engineering projects.

Responsibilities And Duties

• Support studies in mouse models under supervision, including animal handling, injections, non-invasive imaging, necropsies, and preparation of flow cytometry samples.
• Help with preparation and testing of protein- and RNA-based vaccines.
• Independently conduct a wide variety of standard laboratory techniques/procedures, including mammalian cell culture, antibody, and cytokine ELISAs.
• Help ordering and receiving project-specific supplies.
• Attend lab meetings and journal club.

Requirements

• Requires a Bachelor’s degree in biology or chemical biology, cell biology, immunology or an equivalent combination of education, training and/or experience from which comparable knowledge, skill and abilities have been attained.
• Requires 1-3 years experience. Candidates possessing a Master’s degree, 0-2 years experience required.
• Strong organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and within a team environment.
• Comfort and confidence working directly with animals.
• Meticulous attention to detail with strong documentation practices.
• Ability to troubleshoot and modify procedures, interpreting and performing initial analysis of results.
• Solid understanding of, and adherence to, safety protocols to maintain a secure work environment.

Physical Requirements

This position works in a laboratory or vivarium environment.

Additional Information

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

COMPENSATION

The expected hiring range for this position is $20.67 to $25.06 per hour, commensurate with experience.

Consideration will be given to experience that exceeds the listed requirements.

Comprehensive Benefits

• 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

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.