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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 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 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.

POSITION TITLE: Postdoctoral Associate

POSITION SUMMARY:

This postdoctoral position is joint between Shirlee Wohl and Kristian Andersen at Scripps Research. We are working on diverse projects using computational genomics approaches and high-throughput experiments to study emerging viruses and the outbreaks they cause, including SARS-CoV-2, Lassa, Ebola, West Nile, and Zika. We use an integrated approach of collaboration and fieldwork in West Africa, technology development, and computational biology to investigate these viruses.

We are looking for a (primarily) computational postdoc to lead exciting new projects at the intersection of bioinformatics, evolutionary biology, and global health. These projects include building on our ongoing work to understand the evolution of SARS-CoV-2 and emergence of variants throughout the pandemic, as well as engaging in ongoing development of computational methods for analyzing wastewater sequencing data. The successful candidate will join a team working to develop and implement wastewater pathogen surveillance on a global scale, and will work closely with the developers of Freyja (https://github.com/andersen-lab/Freyja) and other bioinformatic software to develop broadly accessible guidance for the number and frequency of samples needed for adequate surveillance in varied settings. Specific tasks may include:

• Exploring the evolutionary landscape explored by emerging viruses such as SARS-CoV-2;
• Performing independent research exploring viral within- between-host evolution;
• Developing and implementing new sampling methodologies for wastewater genomic studies;
• Working with international partners to support implementation of clinical and wastewater sequencing in low and middle income countries;
• For interested candidates, experimental studies on viral evolution are also an option.

The successful candidate will also support projects part of the Center for Viral Systems Biology (https://cvisb.org/) and West African Research Network for Infectious Diseases (https://warn-id.org/), joining an interdisciplinary team of scientists, biologists, clinicians, and computational scientists working to apply experimental and computational tools to advance infectious disease research. We are looking for a dedicated individual with a keen interest in computational methods that can positively impact global health.

To apply, please submit a CV/Biosketch and a Cover Letter.

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.

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:

• Ph.D in molecular biology, virology, RNA biology, computational biology or similar is required. A pending doctoral degree may also be considered.
• Programming skills in scripting languages such as Python/Perl and/or analysis tools such as R.
• Experience with next-generation sequencing datasets.
• Strong background in statistics would be a plus.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work with and mentor junior scientists and students.
• Background in wet lab methods for pathogen genomics is desired but not required.

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 $64,480- $66,600. Consideration will be given to experience that exceeds the listed requirements.

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.

COVID-19 update: The safety and well-being of our candidates, our people and their families continues to be a top priority. Until restrictions change, interviews will be conducted virtually.