Science Writer I
ABOUT US: 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: Science Writer I
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Science Writer will work with the Chanda Lab at Scripps Research to help prepare grant applications on a wide range of scientific topics, including systems biology, virology, immunology, and drug discovery. Using excellent organizational, conceptual, writing, and editorial skills, they will be responsible for creating proposals that target both governmental and non-governmental agencies, translating scientific concepts and ideas into language appropriate for each funding opportunity. The position will help manage the scientific writing process for individual, multi-investigator, and institutional grant applications and publications. Ability to collaborate with diverse teams of investigators and administrative personnel, possess highly developed project management skills, and exhibit a breadth and depth of understanding of the research conducted in the laboratory will be required. Position must remain informed about current technologies, trends, and research activities taking place in the lab and across relevant fields of interest.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:
- Conceptualize, research, write, edit, and review grant proposals as determined by faculty needs. Work closely with faculty and researchers to translate and integrate high level scientific concepts and ideas into language appropriate for the targeted funding opportunity. Work with faculty and the scientific team to iterate drafts and finalize proposal narratives.
- Support the writing of reviews and manuscripts for publications, as well as preparation of PowerPoint slides for presentations and meetings.
- Write, edit, and review critical supporting documents (e.g., equipment, facilities, resource sharing, letters of support, administrative components) and other materials related to grants during the pre-award process.
- Organization and integration of proposal budgets.
- Analyze reviews of previously submitted proposals and provide feedback to improve the chance of funding upon re-submission.
- Develop and maintain detailed knowledge of faculty research interests and strengths.
- Track novel funding opportunities for research activities.
- Provide project management support for writing and executing multi-institutional grants.
- Collect and summarize program/project outcomes and submit timely reports to the Laboratory management.
POSITION REQUIREMENTS:
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant scientific discipline.
- A minimum of three years of experience in successful (funded) grant development, writing individual and team proposals, and facilitating the submission of grant proposals.
- Demonstrated experience in researching, writing, and submitting grant applications including NIH R01 and large, multi-institutional proposals.
- Experience managing multiple projects, priorities, deadlines, and the stakeholders involved.
- Experience working in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
- Track record of authorship on peer-reviewed and invited publications.
- Experience with program project type applications that incorporate multiple projects, PIs, and scientific cores.
- Knowledge of research funding sources, including NIH, foundations, Department of Defense, and other funding sources.
- Extensive knowledge of contract and grant policies and issues and external funding programs and requirements, including knowledge of national and international trends in scientific research.
- In-depth knowledge of institutional functional areas that administer and/or are impacted by sponsored projects, such as grants administration and research accounting.
- Excellent organizational and time management skills for managing the writing (research, draft preparation, review, and revision) of complex grant proposals and deliver fundable proposals in a timely manner to meet both interim and final deadlines.
- Ability and specialized skills to take initiative and independently plan, organize, coordinate, and perform work in various situations where numerous and diverse demands are involved.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: Advanced degree in immunology or infectious diseases (PhD, MD, or equivalent) is preferred.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: May include: Stationary position for an extended period of time, lifting, traverse campus/facility as needed, operate machinery such as computer, phone, copy machine; exposure to cold or hot temperatures
Compensation: Salary is commensurate with experience.
EEO Statement:
The Scripps Research Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 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.
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. New hires will work remotely, unless specifically authorized for campus access.