Scientist

Sanford Burnham Prebys is a preeminent, independent biomedical research institute dedicated to understanding human biology and disease and advancing scientific discoveries to profoundly impact human 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.

Summary:

The Cancer Metabolism Core is a shared resource (Core) within the Cancer Center at Sanford Burnham Prebys. The Core is based around three different instrument platforms: A YSI analyzer for measuring lactate, glucose and glutamine in culture media, three Seahorse analyzers for real-time measurements of pH changes and oxygen consumption in cultured cells, and two GC-MS(/MS) instruments for targeted stable-isotope tracing and quantification of panels of metabolites. The Scientist will assist in all functions of the Cancer Metabolism Core and will report to the Director of the Cancer Metabolism Core.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• After training, participate in established operations of the Core. For GC-MS-based metabolite quantification and stable isotope analysis, this includes sample extraction and chemical derivatization, running samples on the GC-MS instruments, and data analysis.
• Assist with management of Agilent Seahorse and YSI analyzers.
• Assist with project design and scheduling, sample and process tracking, quality control of results, instrumentation troubleshooting, and billing for services.
• Develop standard operating protocols, determine and implement metrics for quality assessment, and track the quality of analytical services.
• Assist in the development and implementation of data analytical pipelines for stable isotope tracing.
• Help to develop, implement and optimize novel or adapted (based on the literature) GC-MS or LC-MS analytical methods for metabolites, dependent on the requirements of Core users, or proactively in anticipation of demand.
• Interact with faculty, staff scientists, postdocs and grad students, and outside users, in support of their projects.
• Help to provide technical training in metabolomics methods (including stable isotope tracing) and the use of Seahorse analyzers for Core users.
• Participate in the maintenance of facility equipment and infrastructure and liase with equipment manufacturers and support vendors. Monitor and order supplies and create quotes for Core use.
• Become familiar with the iLab Core management system, assuring iLab data entry as needed, in a timely fashion.

Education and/or Experience:

• Requires a Ph.D. degree in biological or chemical sciences or a related field preferably including experience at the PhD or postdoctoral level working in the area of Metabolomics or stable isotope tracing in metabolism, or an equivalent combination of education, training and/or experience from which comparable knowledge, skill and abilities have been attained.
• Preferred experience in biochemistry or organic chemistry, mass spectrometry, computer programming, statistics, and knowledge of metabolism in relation to cancer.

Other Knowledge, Skills and/or Abilities:

• Work independently and with initiative (to develop methods, troubleshoot instrument problems, etc.), but also in a team environment.
• Be responsible, well-organized, a problem solver, and keep good records.
• Possess strong attention to detail, as well as analytical, time management, organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Be proficient in the use of Microsoft Office.
• Embody the Institutes core values of Commitment, Collaboration, Communication, Community and Compassion.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

Compensation:

• The expected hiring range for this position is $83,340 - $106,259 commensurate with relevant experience.

Sanford Burnham Prebys celebrates the rich diversity of our scientists, students and staff, who hail from more than 30 countries. Our diverse and inclusive environment catalyzes innovation and fuels discovery, enhancing the value and impact of our research.

We welcome talented individuals of all backgrounds regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, military or veteran status. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer.

For additional information about your rights as an applicant, click HERE.

As part of this commitment, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations for the hiring process. If a reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact our HR Partners at 858 646 3100 Ext 5127 or via e-mail at accomodations@sbpdiscovery.org.