Research Assistant II- Ward Lab

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- Ward Lab role at Scripps Research

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Scripps Research is ranked the most influential institution in the world for its impact on innovation. We expand basic knowledge in the biosciences and use these fundamental advancements to develop profound innovations that improve wellbeing. Our educational and training programs mold talented and committed students and postdocs into leading edge scientists. Scientists in the institute’s five academic research departments work hand-in-hand with researchers of the Scripps Research Translational Institute and Cali  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 to better human health around the globe. If you have a passion for making a difference, this could be your opportunity to join our transformative team.

Research Assistant II

The Ward lab is dedicated to translating cutting‑edge academic discoveries into preclinical biologics and providing expert cryo

EM services. Through strategic partnerships with biotechnology companies and the development of internal R&D programs, the Ward lab bridges the gap between basic research and therapeutic innovation, driving forward novel biologics platforms and candidate development. We are seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant II to support ongoing discovery efforts within our membrane protein biologics pipeline and structural characterization initiatives for external partnerships.

The successful candidate will contribute to assay development, protein engineering, and structural biology workflows in a fast‑paced, collaborative environment that combines academic innovation with a start‑up culture.

• Work under minimal supervision. Independently conducts a wide variety of standard laboratory techniques/procedures while using judgement when necessary to adapt standard methods and techniques. Receive instructions on specific assignment objectives, complex features, and possible solutions.
• Provide interpretation and analyses of results. Troubleshoot and modify procedures.
• May assist in designing experiments to complete a segment of overall research plan. May provide routine equipment maintenance. May provide guidance/training to department.
• Cell Line Engineering:
  Generate stable reporter cell lines using lentiviral transduction methods.
• Assay Development:
  Design, implement, and optimize fluorescence‑ and flow cytometry‑based assays for lead molecule discovery and validation.
• Protein Characterization:
  Perform biochemical analyses of proteins and protein complexes to support biologics discovery and structure‑guided engineering efforts.
• Cross‑Functional Support:
  Contribute to ongoing efforts in protein design, cell line engineering, functional assay development, and library screening as needed.
• Electron Microscopy (EM) and Electron Microscopy Polyclonal Epitope Mapping (EMPEM) Support:
  Prepare samples for negative‑stain and cryo‑electron microscopy; perform grid preparation, data collection, and data processing as needed. Support EMPEM workflows including protein purification, complex formation, and sample quality assessment to enable low and high‑resolution epitope mapping of antigen‑antibody interactions.
• Record Keeping:
  Maintain detailed experimental records, troubleshoot protocols, and effectively communicate findings with the team.

• Requires a Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry, Biomedical Engineering, or a related field.
• Requires 3‑5 years’ research experience.
• Independent, proactive problem‑solver who thrives in a dynamic, fast‑paced environment.
• Reliable, communicative, and team‑oriented contributor with strong attention to detail.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects in parallel.
• Hands‑on experience with molecular cloning and immunostaining.
• Proficient in mammalian cell culture and transfection techniques.
• Experience with…