Staff Scientist (virology and immunology)
ABOUT US: The Chanda Lab has recently moved to The Scripps Research Institute (La Jolla, California), which is considered the most influential institution in the world for its innovation in science and medicine. Scientists in the institute’s five academic research departments expand basic knowledge and translate their findings into cutting-edge therapies. Our group has joined the Immunology and Microbiology Department, where we will continue to focus on the molecular mechanisms of virus-host interactions using advanced technologies such as CRISPR, RNAi, NGS, proteomics, chemical biology, and super-resolution microscopy, among others. We seek to understand a pathogen’s ability to exploit the host cellular machinery and evade innate immune defenses to drive viral pathogenesis. Currently, our efforts target several RNA viruses of pandemic potential, including influenza virus, coronavirus, flaviviruses, and filoviruses. Through our Calibr arm, we have undertaken a robust drug-discovery program. The lab is specifically seeking to transform molecular discoveries to develop next-generation therapeutics for the treatment of viral infections, cancer and autoimmune disease. Our team’s transformative research and the unique environment of the Scripps will cultivate the next generation of scientific leaders.
Position Title: Staff Scientist (virology and immunology)
Position Description:
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.
Requirements:
- Ph.D. degree and 2+ years of postdoctoral experience in biological science is required
- Strong background in virology, molecular biology, and immunology/innate immunity 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
Please submit a CV/Biosketch and a Cover Letter addressing the following topics: (i) how does your research experience fit with our science? (ii) what can you uniquely bring to our research program & lab? (iii) and what are your long-term professional goals, and how can joining our team fit in these goals? and (iv) why you think you will be exceptionally successful in this role.
Physical Requirements:
This position works in a laboratory for which BSL-2 and BSL-3 training is required. Further details of the physical requirements of established essential functions for this position will be addressed/discussed during the interview process.
Compensation: Salary is commensurate with experience.
The above statements describe the work and expectations 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. 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.
COVID-19 update:
The safety and well-being of our candidates, our people and their families continues to be a top priority. Until restrictions change, interviews will be conducted virtually. New hires will work remotely, unless specifically authorized for campus access.