RESEARCH ASSISTANT I- Zhu Lab

Scripps Research • San Diego, CA

2d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Zhu Laboratory is seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant I to join a multidisciplinary team developing next-generation vaccines against diverse viral pathogens, including HIV, HCV, filoviruses, RSV, influenza viruses, and coronaviruses. Research in the laboratory integrates structure-guided vaccine design with molecular biology, protein engineering, immunology, and virology. Experimental approaches include molecular biology, protein production and purification, structural biology (X-ray crystallography and electron microscopy), animal immunization, virus culture and neutralization assays, serological analysis, flow cytometry, single-cell analysis, and next-generation sequencing of immune repertoires. Although molecular biology and protein production will be the primary focus of this position, research assistant may have opportunities to learn advanced techniques in virology and immunology and participate in preclinical vaccine evaluation studies. The successful candidate will work closely with the Principal Investigator and senior laboratory members to support multiple research projects and may be recognized as a contributor on resulting scientific publications.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, microbiology, immunology or a related scientific discipline, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• 1-3 years experience.
• Strong motivation to learn new techniques and contribute to collaborative research.
• Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to maintain accurate experimental records.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative research team.

Nice To Haves

• Prior experience in protein biochemistry and microbiology is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Perform molecular biology and protein biochemistry techniques including DNA cloning, PCR, site-directed mutagenesis, bacterial transformation, mammalian cell culture, transfection, protein expression and purification, SDS-PAGE, BN-PAGE, and Western blotting.
• Maintain sterile laboratory practices and followed standardized protocols to ensure experimental quality and reproducibility.
• Support molecular biology and recombinant protein production workflows for research projects.
• Gain hands-on experience in virology and immunology techniques and contributed to preclinical vaccine evaluation studies.

Benefits

• Eligibility for retirement plans with employer contribution.
• 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 Counseling Center which provides confidential counseling services to benefits-eligible employees and their family members.
• Free, on-site parking.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level