POSTDOCTORAL ASSOCIATE - CHANDA LAB - Immunology and Microbiology

Company: Scripps Research
Location: San Diego
Posted on: April 1, 2026

Job Description:

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 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 Calibr-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. 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: The Dr. Chanda lab at Scripps Research is looking for talented, highly motivated post-doctoral candidates with a background in neuroscience and/or immunology. The available position will focus on studying the molecular mechanisms of aberrant innate immune responses in the context of neurodegeneration. These studies will utilize systems biology (e.g., CRISPR/RNAi, proteomics/chemoproteomics, chemical biology, NextGen Sequencing, etc.), as well as fundamental immunology and more traditional cellular/molecular biology and biochemistry-based approaches. The position will provide opportunities to work with pharmaceutical partners to translate basic research into clinical applications. The person filling this position is expected to play an important intellectual, technical, and scientific role in projects. The candidate will also assist with the preparation of grant applications and manuscripts and contribute to additional projects in the lab. (Position supported by NIH funding.) Required with the application: CV/Biosketch and a Cover Letter addressing the following topics: (i) how does your research experience fit with our science? (ii) what can you uniquely bring to our research program & lab? (iii) and what are your long-term professional goals, and how can joining our team fit in these goals? and (iv) why you think you will be exceptionally successful in this role. 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 and develop your career. Click here to learn more about our Postdoctoral Program and Services: https://education.scripps.edu/postdoctoral/ REQUIREMENTS: Ph.D. degree in biological science is required, preferably in the fields of neuroinflammation or innate immunity. Background in signaling pathways is a plus. Strong background in cellular/molecular biology techniques, including cell/tissue culture, isolation and manipulation of primary cells (expertise in neuronal and microglial culture systems is a plus) and microscopy. Demonstrated productivity with a strong publication record in high-quality journals Excellent communication skills in English, verbal and written Excellent organizational skills and the ability to work independently Ability to work in a highly dynamic environment 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 $70,304- $75,353. 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 four medical plan options (including an HSA available option), dental, vision, life insurance, disability, EAP and more. Access to Dependent Flexible Spending Accounts. Paid Time Off - 5 days annually Free, on-site Counseling Center which provides confidential counseling services to benefits-eligible employees. 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.

Keywords: Scripps Research, La Mesa , POSTDOCTORAL ASSOCIATE - CHANDA LAB - Immunology and Microbiology, Science, Research & Development , San Diego, California