Research Technician

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 are celebrating 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.  We work hand-in-hand with researchers of the Scripps Research Translational Institute and Calibr to 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. If you have a passion for making a difference, this could be your opportunity to join our transformative team.

Celebrating a Century:  https://100.scripps.edu/

POSITION SUMMARY: Dr. Ahmed H. Badran’s Laboratory at The Scripps Research Institute seeks to hire TWO highly motivated full-time Research Technicians.  The Badran Lab is interested in applying synthetic and chemical biology principles to create expanded genetic codes, improve biosynthetic carbon fixation strategies, and develop novel antimicrobial therapeutics. The research technicians would lead efforts towards the creation of robust genetic circuits and reporters for cellular bioactivities, with a focus on importing heterologous machinery in the laboratory workhorse bacterium Escherichia coli. This position will also include optimizing existing techniques and developing improved methods for troubleshooting of synthetic designs.

POSITION TITLE:  Research Technician

Perform a variety of routine scientific tasks; may prepare test specimens; set up and operate standard lab equipment of moderate complexity; record data providing basic analyses and interpretations; may perform a limited number of non-repetitive procedures; perform other related duties, tasks and responsibilities as required or assigned.  

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

• Perform research and conduct a wide variety of standard laboratory procedures for projects under minimal supervision, independently and in collaboration with others
• Record and analyze data, and interpret results
• Investigate, troubleshoot and modify methods and procedures as necessary
• May assist in designing experiments
• May provide routine equipment maintenance as well as guidance/training to other department personnel
• Perform other related duties, tasks, and responsibilities as required or assigned, with details of established essential functions for this position addressed/discussed during the interview process

REQUIREMENTS:

• Requires a bachelor's degree in a relevant scientific discipline and up to one (1) year of related experience.
• Three (3) to six (6) years of related laboratory experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.

PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS:

• B.Sc. or B.A. in molecular biology, biochemistry, or related field
• Moderate understanding of nucleic acids and proteins
• Prior hands-on experience with nucleic acid and protein purification, molecular biology, bacterial genetics, and assay development are preferred, but any exceptionally creative and driven individual will be thoroughly considered
• Strong oral and written communication, data documentation, and presentation skills
• Ability to handle multiple projects at the same time
• Excellent collaborative and interpersonal skills

COMPENSATION:

The expected hiring range for this position is $18.13 to $24 per hour, 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.