POSTDOCTORAL ASSOCIATE - Integrative Structural and Computational Biology - Dr. Racki Lab

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 TITLE:  Postdoctoral Associate

POSITION SUMMARY:
A Postdoctoral Associate position is available in Dr. Lisa Racki’s Lab at the Scripps Research Institute in La Jolla, CA (rackilab.org) for a highly motivated scientist interested in biomolecular condensates and bacterial chromatin. Specifically, this project will investigate the role of polyphosphate condensates in the organization, structure, and dynamics of bacterial chromatin in the opportunistic human pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This project uses an integrative approach to study bacterial chromatin structure at multiple scales, from in vitro biochemistry, to quantitative single cell timelapse imaging using microfluidics, to macroscopic studies of biofilm communities.

This project is supported by an NIH New Innovator Award: https://commonfund.nih.gov/newinnovator/AwardRecipients20 

Postdoctoral Associates are appointed positions for the purpose of developing scholarly competence, working under the supervision of a Scripps Research Faculty member.  These appointments are normally not renewed beyond a total of five years.  Postdoctoral Associates cannot apply for external funding either as a Principal Investigator or Co-Principal Investigator without prior approval from a Departmental Chair.  Postdoctoral Associates do not have consulting privileges.

Interested candidates should attach as a single file a CV, cover letter, and a one page research experience summary along with contact information for three references. 

Make Scripps Research your next step to advance your research training. Click here to learn more about our Postdoctoral Program and Services: https://education.scripps.edu/postdoctoral/

REQUIREMENTS:

• A PhD in cell biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, biophysics, bioengineering, or a related field.
• Facility with molecular biology tools
• A strong publication record
• Excellent presentation and record-keeping skills
• An interest in mentorship, ability to work as part of a team, and contribute to an inclusive work environment

PREFERRED BUT NOT REQUIRED:

• Previous experience with bacterial genetics, quantitative cell biology, chromatin biology (including eukaryotic chromatin)
• Facility with writing and using Python code

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

COMPENSATION: Postdoctoral Associates will be hired following the National Institute of Health and California’s exempt salary guidelines, which provide for a starting range of $68,000- $73,230. Consideration will be given to experience that exceeds the listed requirements.

COMPREHENSIVE BENEFITS INCLUDE:

• 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.
• Pet Insurance 

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.