RESEARCH SCIENTIST- Molecular Biology & Protein Engineering

ABOUT US:

Calibr-Skaggs Institute for Innovative Medicines was founded on the principle that the creation of new medicines can be accelerated by pairing world-class biomedical research with state-of-the-art drug discovery and development capabilities. Calibr-Skaggs is a division of Scripps Research, a first-of-its-kind, nonprofit translational research institute dedicated to creating the next generation of medicines. Scripps Research is ranked the most influential institution in the world for its impact on innovation. Our educational and training programs mold talented and committed students and postdocs into leading-edge scientists. Leveraging the unique scientific environment of Scripps Research, impacting translational sciences, Calibr-Skaggs has created a portfolio of drug candidates, and is shaping a new paradigm for advancing nonprofit biomedical research to impact patients while reinvesting in further innovative research. We expand basic knowledge in the biosciences and use these fundamental advancements to develop profound innovations that improve wellbeing. Calibr-Skaggs’ drug development portfolio spans a broad range of human diseases, including cancer, autoimmunity and inflammatory diseases, metabolic and cardiovascular diseases, infectious and neglected tropical diseases, as well as age-related and degenerative diseases. If you have a passion for making a difference, this could be your opportunity to join our transformative team.

position TITLE: Research Scientist, Molecular Biology and Protein Engineering

JOB SUMMARY:

We are seeking an exceptional Research Assistant or Scientist candidate to join our molecular biology and protein engineering team working to advance transformative therapies from concept to clinic. In this role, you will collaborate with a dynamic team of protein scientists and molecular biologists to design, engineer, and produce proteins, plasmids, and viral vectors that power innovative R&D programs in immuno-oncology, autoimmunity, and gene therapy. Beyond core biologics programs, you will also have the unique opportunity to support diverse initiatives spanning infectious diseases, neglected tropical diseases, and metabolic disorders-reflecting Calibr-Skaggs’ commitment to global health and broad disease indications. Our open lab design fosters seamless collaboration across interdisciplinary teams, while structured growth pathways ensure exceptional talent thrives within the Calibr-Skaggs family. Hands-on wet lab work is central to this position, with opportunities to apply advanced molecular biology and protein engineering techniques to real-world therapeutic challenges.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILIES:

• Design bispecific and multispecific antibodies for immune-oncology and autoimmune diseases.
• Design and clone genes into vectors for mammalian, coli, insect, or yeast expression.
• Protein expression primarily in mammalian cells, sometimes in coli, insect cells, or yeast.
• Protein purification by affinity chromatography, gel-filtration, and other chromatography techniques (ion exchange, hydrophobic interaction chromatography, etc.).
• Protein characterization by SDS-PAGE, analytical SEC-HPLC, LCMS, biolayer interferometry (BLI) and other methods.
• Documentation of plasmids and proteins in the database.
• Presentation of results in group meetings and communication with team members.

experience:

• Molecular biology techniques, including construct design, DNA isolation and purification, and assembly-based cloning are required.
• Protein expression in HEK, CHO, or E. coli, is required. Experience with yeast and insect expression platforms is advantageous.
• Protein purification techniques are required, including a basic understanding of FPLC, HPLC, gravity drip columns, and a range of affinity and capture technologies including SEC, IEX, mixed-mode, etc.
• An understanding of biophysical characterization of proteins is important. Relevant competencies may include but are not limited to, RP, IEX, SEC chromatography, Biacore & Octet, and HR-MS of proteins.
• Protein design of bispecific and/or multispecific antibodies is advantageous but not required.
• Medium- and high-throughput protein expression is not required but advantageous.
• Outstanding organizational skills and experience in preparing scientific and technical documents are important.

QUALIFICAIONS:

• Educational background: Bachelor’s degree with 5+ years’ experience, master’s degree with 3+ years’ experience, or PhD with 1+ years’ experience in protein chemistry, chemical biology, biochemistry, or relevant scientific discipline.

• Industry experience: While prior industry experience is preferred, outstanding candidates without this will be considered.
• Attention to detail: Demonstrated excellence in designing and conducting hands-on experiments, organizing and managing projects, and maintaining meticulous documentation.
• Motivation and creativity: Highly motivated and creative with a devotion to project goals and timelines.
• Collaborative skills: Proficient in collaborating and communicating effectively with colleagues and management teams.
• Ability to meaningfully contribute to scientific discourse.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
This position works in a laboratory environment. Further details of the physical requirements of established essential functions for this position will be addressed/discussed during the interview process.

COMPENSATION: