Lead Researcher - In Vivo & In Vitro Screening

About the role

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Lead Researcher to investigate therapeutic approaches for pediatric cancers, with a focus on leukemia and medulloblastoma. Our research integrates cancer biology, molecular biology, functional genomics, and translational science.

The successful candidate will lead and support in vitro and in vivo drug screening, including dose-response, combination therapy, and synergism studies, and use molecular and cellular approaches to define mechanisms of drug response. Projects will incorporate short and long-read RNA sequencing and other genomic approaches to generate mechanistic insights, with validation using molecular biology and cell-based assays.

The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in molecular and cell biology, including cell culture, flow cytometry, DNA/RNA isolation, western blotting and functional assays. Experience with drug screening, genomics, cancer models, or in vivo studies is highly desirable. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to translational research aimed at developing improved therapies for children with cancer.

This Position May be Ideal For

• Master's level graduates with extensive laboratory experience looking to establish a track record of research productivity, including gaining high-position authorships on publications.
• Recent PhDs or research staff looking for an enriching, collaborative, and interdisciplinary lab environment committed to discovering new biology in the field of high-risk leukemia research.

Job Responsibilities

• Lead and perform in vitro and in vivo drug screening studies using established primary and patient-derived leukemia and medulloblastoma models
• Design and execute dose-response, viability, combination, and drug-synergy studies
• Develop, optimize, and troubleshoot cell-based and molecular assays
• Utilize short- and long-read RNA-seq and other genomics approaches to investigate mechanisms of therapeutic response
• Analyze and interpret experimental data, prioritize candidates to advance studies toward in vivo validation
• Design and/or coordinate in vivo efficacy studies
• Maintain comprehensive and well-organized experimental records

Minimum Education and/or Training

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant scientific area is required

Minimum Experience

• 5+ years of research experience is required
• 3+ years of experience is required with a Master’s degree
• No prior experience required with a PHD
• Strong knowledge and experience in understanding and application of underlying principles related to techniques being performed
• Experience in R&D methods and processes in lab setting, and execution of research projects for the laboratory preferred
• Proven performance in earlier role/comparable role

Compensation

In recognition of certain U.S. state and municipal pay transparency laws, St. Jude is including a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role.

This is an estimate offered in good faith and a specific salary offer takes into account factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets, experience and training, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs.

It is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the salary range and compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. A reasonable estimate of the current salary range is $60,320 - $105,040 per year for the role of Lead Researcher - In Vivo & In Vitro Screening.

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