RESEARCH ASSISTANT II - Jin Lab

Scripps Research is a nonprofit biomedical institute ranked as one of the most influential in the world for its impact on innovation. With a 100-year legacy, we have made 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 the Calibr-Skaggs Institute for Innovative Medicines and Scripps Research Translational Institute, merging foundational studies in biology, chemistry, and computer science with translational science to produce pioneering drugs and advances in digital and precision medicine.

About the role

The Research Assistant II will support studies using genomic tools to investigate tissue development and homeostasis. This position involves mouse handling, molecular biology, genomics, cell culture, and single-cell sequencing-related workflows. The successful candidate will work both independently and collaboratively to perform experiments, maintain accurate records, troubleshoot protocols, and help generate high-quality data for ongoing research projects.

Responsibilities

• Perform laboratory work involving mouse handling, molecular biology, genomics, and cell culture to support ongoing studies of brain development and neurodevelopmental disease mechanisms.
• Assist with CRISPR-based perturbation experiments, including preparation of reagents, viral/vector-related workflows, sample collection, and downstream genomic analysis.
• Handle and monitor mice used in research studies, including basic husbandry coordination, tissue collection, and experimental preparation.
• Perform mouse-related procedures such as colony tracking, genotyping sample collection, tissue dissection, and preparation of brain samples for molecular analysis.
• Carry out molecular biology techniques including DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, qPCR, gel electrophoresis, cloning, and preparation of sequencing-related materials.
• Assist with single-cell genomics workflows, including nuclei or cell preparation, quality control, library preparation support, and sample submission for sequencing.
• Maintain mammalian cell cultures using sterile technique, including passaging, transfection or transduction support, and monitoring cell health.
• Prepare, organize, and validate experimental reagents such as plasmids, oligos, guide RNA libraries, buffers, and cell culture media.
• Record experimental procedures, sample information, and results accurately in laboratory notebooks and shared databases.
• Analyze and summarize basic experimental results, including genotyping outcomes, QC metrics, and molecular assay results.
• Troubleshoot routine experimental issues related to sample quality, molecular assays, sequencing preparation, or cell culture conditions.
• Maintain laboratory equipment, supplies, reagent inventories, and shared workspaces to ensure efficient day-to-day lab operations.
• Coordinate with lab members on experimental timelines, animal use, sequencing submissions, and sample tracking.
• Follow institutional biosafety, animal research, and laboratory compliance policies, including proper documentation and training requirements.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant scientific discipline or an equivalent combination of education, training, and/or experience. Requires 3-5 years’ experience. Candidates possessing a master’s degree require 2+ years’ experience.
• Prior experience with mouse handling, mouse colony management, tissue collection, genotyping, or related animal research procedures.
• Experience with standard molecular biology techniques such as DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, qPCR, gel electrophoresis, cloning, or preparation of sequencing-related samples.
• Experience with mammalian cell culture, sterile technique, cell passaging, transfection, viral transduction, or cell-based assays.
• Familiarity with genomics or single-cell sequencing workflows is preferred.
• Ability to follow detailed experimental protocols, maintain organized records, and accurately track samples and reagents.
• Ability to work under minimal supervision, troubleshoot routine experimental issues, and adapt standard procedures when needed.
• Strong organizational, communication, and time-management skills.
• Willingness to work with mouse models and comply with institutional animal research, biosafety, and laboratory safety requirements.

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Pay

The expected hiring range for this position is $70,304 to $77,000 per year, commensurate with experience. Consideration will be given to experience that exceeds the listed requirements.

Benefits

• Employer-contributed retirement plan (no employee contribution required) and the option to contribute to a 403(b).
• Full suite of health and welfare plans including three medical plan options (including an HSA-available option), dental, vision, life insurance, disability, and EAP.
• Access to Flexible Spending Accounts (Medical/Dependent Care).
• Competitive vacation and sick leave policies.
• Free, on-site parking.