Senior Prospect Researcher - Philanthropy
Company: Scripps Research
Location: San Diego
Posted on: April 1, 2026
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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 : Senior Prospect Researcher
POSITION SUMMARY: The Senior Prospect Researcher plays a critical
role in supporting high-level fundraising efforts at Scripps
Research by leading research initiatives focused on principal and
presidential-level prospects. Reporting to the Executive Director
of Development Information Services, this role serves as the lead
researcher for top-tier prospects and works closely with the AVPs
of Principal Gifts to support key initiatives for Scripps Research
and Calibr-Skaggs. This position will combine reactive research
with proactive discovery to identify individuals and organizations
with the capacity and alignment to significantly impact the
institution’s mission. The successful candidate will bring
analytical rigor, strategic thinking, and leadership to the Office
of Philanthropy’s prospect development strategy. RESPONSIBILITIES
AND DUTIES: Prospect Research and Strategy Serve as the lead
researcher for principal gift, presidential, and board-level
prospects, delivering comprehensive, strategic research to inform
high-level cultivation and solicitation strategies. Proactively
identify new high-net-worth individuals, foundations, and
organizations aligned with Scripps Research’s mission and strategic
priorities. Support board development efforts by identifying,
researching, and evaluating high-capacity prospects with relevant
expertise and philanthropic potential to serve on the Board of
Directors, aligning candidates with strategic initiatives and
institutional priorities at Scripps Research. Collaborate with
development officers to provide insight and recommendations on
prospect interests, giving capacity, philanthropic affiliations,
and potential pathways to engagement. Develop detailed prospect
profiles and briefing information in support of principal and
transformational gift activities. Monitor philanthropic trends,
industry news, and donor movement to identify emerging
opportunities for engagement. Leadership and Team Collaboration
Work closely with the Executive Director of Development Information
Services and the broader Development Information Services team to
ensure integration and alignment of research activities across
philanthropy. Provide strategic guidance on prospect management
practices, portfolio reviews, and pipeline development, supporting
effective use of research data to drive results. Collaborate with
colleagues across the Office of Philanthropy, including the AVPs of
Principal Gifts, to ensure that research insights inform donor
strategies and organizational priorities. Data Stewardship and
Insight Maintain high standards for data accuracy, privacy, and
compliance in all research and prospect development activities.
Leverage internal database, external tools, and analytical
resources to develop insights on wealth, capacity, and
philanthropic alignment. Contribute to strategic planning through
the interpretation of data trends, donor behavior, and
philanthropic patterns relevant to the organization. Identify and
implement tools, methodologies, and best practices to enhance the
effectiveness and efficiency of prospect research operations.
Special Projects and Institutional Support Lead or contribute to
special research initiatives, such as campaign planning, regional
assessments, and affinity analysis projects. Support senior
leadership, including the Office of the President, with tailored
research deliverables to guide high-level engagement strategies.
Ensure a coordinated approach to prospect development across teams,
promoting transparency and strategic alignment in fundraising
efforts. Maintain the highest standards of discretion and
confidentiality. Details of established essential functions for
this position will be addressed/discussed during the interview
process. REQUIREMENTS: A minimum of 8 years of experience in
prospect research, prospect development, or related advancement
roles, preferably in a complex academic or research environment.
Demonstrated experience conducting high-level research for
principal and transformative gift prospects. Deep knowledge of
wealth screening tools, databases (e.g., iWave, ResearchPoint,
DonorSearch, RelSci, Candid, LexisNexis), and CRM systems (e.g.,
Salesforce or Blackbaud). Proven ability to synthesize complex data
into concise, strategic recommendations for senior stakeholders.
Knowledge of evaluating and analyzing financial information
including SEC filings, government documents, deeds and property tax
assessments, and other wealth documents to assess potential
philanthropic capacity. Excellent written and verbal communication
skills, with the ability to present findings to a range of
audiences including senior leadership and board members. Strong
understanding of fundraising and development strategy, particularly
within principal and major gift contexts. Bachelor’s degree
required; advanced degree or relevant certifications in research,
library science, nonprofit management, or related fields preferred.
While subject to change based on business needs, this position can
function remotely or onsite from our La Jolla campus. COMPENSATION:
The expected hiring range for this position is $80,000 to
$100,000/annually, 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.
Keywords: Scripps Research, San Diego , Senior Prospect Researcher - Philanthropy, Science, Research & Development , San Diego, California
