Research Assistant/Research Scientist - Cheminformatics

Position Title: Research Assistant/Research Scientist – Cheminformatics

About Us:

Calibr, a division of Scripps Research, is a first-of-its-kind, nonprofit translational research institute dedicated to creating the next generation of medicines. Calibr was founded on the principle that the creation of new medicines can be accelerated by pairing world-class biomedical research with state-of-the-art drug discovery and development capabilities. Calibr, a division of Scripps Research, is a first-of-its-kind, nonprofit translational research institute dedicated to creating the next generation of medicines. Scripps Research is ranked one of the most influential institutions in the world for its impact on innovation. Our educational and training programs mold talented and committed students and postdocs into leading edge scientists. Leveraging the unique scientific environment of Scripps Research, impacting translational sciences, Calibr has created a portfolio of drug candidates, and is shaping a new paradigm for advancing nonprofit biomedical research to impact patients while re-investing in further innovative research. We expand basic knowledge in the biosciences and use these fundamental advancements to develop profound innovations that improve wellbeing. Calibr’s drug development portfolio spans a broad range of human diseases, including cancer, autoimmunity and inflammatory diseases, metabolic and cardiovascular diseases, infectious and neglected diseases, as well as age-related and degenerative diseases. If you have a passion for making a difference, this could be your opportunity to join our transformative team.

Position Summary:

The Computational Chemistry team is seeking a Cheminformatician who will be responsible for developing and applying advanced computational methods across the drug discovery pipeline. This role involves a significant focus on machine learning techniques to analyze and interpret complex chemical data.

Key Responsibilities:

• Data Analysis and Modeling: Build, test, and optimize machine learning models for the analysis of large chemical datasets. Develop QSAR models for predicting bioactivity, pharmacokinetic, and ADMET (Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion, and Toxicity) profiles; large-language models (LLMs) for querying drug information across mechanism of action, target, disease indication, patent information, and screening data; and generative AI models for drug design and lead optimization.
• Algorithm Development: Design and develop algorithms and tools for chemical structure representation, searching, and clustering for SAR analysis and identification of novel chemical space for drug and library design as part of the medicinal chemistry team.
• Collaboration: Work closely with interdisciplinary teams including medicinal chemists, biologists, and computational scientists to readily apply and integrate cheminformatics tools into drug discovery programs.
• Data Management: Manage chemical databases, ensuring data integrity, quality, and accessibility. Develop tools for data mining and visualization.
• Details of established essential functions for this position will be addressed/discussed during the interview process.

Qualifications and Experience:

• BS, MS, or PhD in Computer Science, Data Science, Computational Chemistry, Bioinformatics, or a related field
• Minimum of 1 year of research experience
• Background in machine learning, data science, and statistical analysis
• Strong proficiency in Python (additional SQL and/or JavaScript experience preferred) and its data analysis libraries (e.g. Pandas, NumPy, scikit-learn)
• Experience with cheminformatics toolkits and software (e.g. RDKit, Schrodinger Maestro, PyMOL) preferred
• Organic chemistry and/or biochemistry coursework experience preferred.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

May include: Stationary position for an extended period of time, traverse campus/facility as needed, operate machinery such as computer, phone, copy machine; exposure to cold or hot temperatures.

COMPENSATION

The expected hiring range for this multi-level (Research Assistant or Research Scientist) position is $44,000 to $99,360, commensurate with experience. Consideration will be given to experience that exceeds the listed requirements.

COMPREHENSIVE BENEFITS INCLUDE:

• Employer Contributed Retirement Plan – Depending on eligibility, employees receive an employer contributed retirement plan (no employee contribution required) and the option to contribute to a 403(b) (which is similar to a 401(k) using your own pre or post-tax dollars)
• Full Suite of Health and Welfare plans including three medical plan options (including an HSA available option), dental, vision, life insurance, disability, EAP and more
• Access to Flexible Spending Accounts (Medical/Dependent Care)
• Competitive vacation and sick leave policies
• Free, on-site parking

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.