INTERN Research - Ken Lab

Job Title and Summary

We are looking for a highly motivated undergraduate intern to help conduct molecular biology techniques and mammalian cell culture for this project.
Title:
Studying Promoter-Proximal Pausing in the Context of RNA Stem Loops.

Promoter‑proximal pausing (PPP) refers to the stalling of RNA polymerase II shortly after transcription initiation. It is a widespread phenomenon that governs transcriptional regulation in metazoan cells, and certain viruses, such as HIV-1, make use of this same mechanism for their own replication purposes. We are interested in studying the RNA structural determinants of PPP and applying it for assay development.

The intern must be able to commit to a minimum of 15 but ideally 19 hours each week, and preferably be able to come into the lab on Scripps campus over at least four consecutive days. Though not necessary, prior laboratory experience would be preferred.

Scripps Research is a nonprofit biomedical institute ranked as one of the most influential in the world for its impact on innovation. We celebrated 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.

Scripps Research encompasses two elite and highly innovative institutes, the Cali ‑Skaggs Institute for Innovative Medicines and Scripps Research Translational Institute, which 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.

Assist with basic laboratory maintenance, including glassware washing, autoclaving, and preparing media and solutions. Support experimental procedures assigned by our experienced staff and contribute to ongoing research projects.

The techniques that will be conducted as a part of this project include, but are not limited to:

• molecular cloning
• mammalian cell culture
• transient transfection
• luminescence assays
• data analysis in Microsoft Excel and Graph Pad Prism

• Part‑time:
  Up to 19 hours per week.
• This is a year‑round position, not a summer intern or other short‑term internship.

• The expected hiring range for this position is $17.25 to $20.40 per hour, commensurate with experience. Consideration will be given to experience that exceeds the listed requirements.

Must be currently enrolled in high school, an associate’s program, a bachelor's program or a master's program.

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.

Equal Opportunity Employer. This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.