Research Associate - Proteomics

RESEARCH ASSOCIATE I - PROTEOMICS

Full Time Hourly Lab Staff San Diego, California, San Diego, CA, US

Salary Range: $22.22 To $30.06 Hourly

Sanford Burnham Prebys is much more than a research facility and hub for innovation; it’s a vibrant global community of talented scientists and researchers from over 30 countries. This worldwide representation enriches our perspectives and enhances our creative approach to solving complex scientific challenges.

We strive to be leaders not only in biomedical research but also in creating an environment where excellence thrives through collaboration across cultures and backgrounds. Our mission is to advance the biomedical sciences by cultivating the next generation of scientific leaders, providing meaningful opportunities for researchers of all backgrounds to learn, innovate, and make breakthrough discoveries that improve human health.

Together, we translate science into health.

The duties and responsibilities contained in the job description are intended to be examples of the accountabilities for which the person in the position will demonstrate competency through performance. The job description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list. Duties and responsibilities are subject to change and other duties may be assigned as necessary.

Position Summary:

The Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute (SBP) is seeking a Research Associate I to join its state-of-the-art Proteomics Core Facility. We are looking for a highly motivated and detail-oriented individual to perform high-quality sample preparation for downstream mass spectrometry-based proteomics analyses.

Working under the supervision of the Core Director, the Research Associate I will collaborate closely with Proteomics Specialists and other Core staff to process a wide variety of biological samples using established and emerging proteomics workflows. Primary responsibilities include protein extraction, digestion, enrichment, and other sample preparation techniques, as well as operation of automated liquid handling platforms to support high-throughput workflows.

The successful candidate will help ensure the consistent delivery of high-quality samples for downstream LC-MS/MS analysis while maintaining rigorous quality standards and laboratory organization.

The Proteomics Core Facility is equipped with advanced automation systems, including an Agilent Assay Map Bravo, SEER SP100 platform, chromatography systems, and Thermo Fisher Orbitrap mass spectrometers (Orbitrap Fusion Lumos, Q Exactive, Orbitrap Elite, and Quantiva Triple Quadrupole). This position provides an opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge biomedical research by supporting investigators across diverse scientific disciplines in both academic and industry collaborations.

Opportunities for professional development, technical training, and co-authorship on collaborative publications are available.

The successful candidate must be organized, adaptable, and able to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced, service-oriented environment while maintaining meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to reproducible, high-quality results.

• Perform sample preparation for mass spectrometry-based proteomics analyses, including protein extraction, quantification, reduction/alkylation, enzymatic digestion, peptide cleanup, fractionation, enrichment, and other established workflows.
• Operate and maintain automated liquid handling systems (e.g., Agilent Assay Map Bravo, SEER SP100, and other laboratory automation platforms) following established standard operating procedures.
• Prepare reagents, buffers, standards, and quality control samples, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and reproducibility across projects.
• Maintain detailed experimental records, sample tracking, and laboratory documentation in accordance with Core Facility policies and quality standards.
• Perform routine quality control procedures and assist with troubleshooting sample preparation workflows to ensure high-quality downstream mass spectrometry analyses.
• Assist with the routine maintenance, calibration, and organization of laboratory equipment and work spaces; monitor laboratory supplies and coordinate inventory and reagent replenishment.
• Collaborate closely with Proteomics Specialists and Core Facility staff to support diverse research projects from academic and industry investigators.
• Contribute to the development, optimization, and validation of new sample preparation workflows and…