Sr Researcher or Lead Researcher - Pediatric Oncology - Durbin Lab

Sr Researcher or Lead Researcher - Pediatric Oncology - Durbin Lab

The Senior Researcher performs a variety of basic laboratory research tasks determined by the field and scope of the particular research project/study, whereas the Lead Researcher performs a variety of moderately complex research tasks determined by the field and scope of the particular research project/study.

Overview:
We are seeking a Senior or Lead Researcher to join the lab of Dr. Adam Durbin in the Department of Oncology at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

With advances in functional genomics, the role of epigenetic enzymes and transcription factor complexes in driving cell lineage and cancer pathogenesis has come to the forefront. These represent new approaches to controlling high-risk childhood solid tumors, such as neuroblastoma. These processes are made more complex by the presence of intratumoral heterogeneity - the presence of cells in distinct states, within a complex primary tumor (Cell Reports Medicine 2022). Understanding the basic principles of how these cells interact to control growth of a tumor is critical to the successful design of new therapeutic interventions for childhood cancer (Molecular Cell 2020).

The Durbin lab is interested in a broad, 'multi-omics' approach to the epigenetically-coded processes that drive pediatric cancer. Our work has identified key targets in pediatric solid tumors, including rhabdomyosarcoma and neuroblastoma (Nature Genetics 2018; Nature Genetics 2021). We have built on these studies to develop first generation molecules suitable for targeting these proteins (Cancer Discovery 2022).

As a part of the Cancer Dependencies Map, we use an array of technologies to investigate these targets and identify new targets for disruption in cancer. Our goal is to more deeply understand fundamental principles of tumor cell biology, and use these to develop new therapies. Using newly developed tools, we have developed fundamental insights into how cell state is controlled in childhood solid tumors. We seek to continue these studies, understanding the biological principles that govern cancer cell epigenetics, to improve our ability to control fundamental cancer processes, such as growth, resistance to therapy and metastasis.

We are seeking a highly motivated individual with an interest in biomedical research. The ideal applicant will utilize state-of-the-art techniques in genetics, molecular biology, and cell biology to characterize in vitro and in vivo models of human diseases with a particular focus on transcriptional biology and epigenetics.

Experience with cell culture, basic laboratory techniques, molecular cloning and flow cytometry are required. Experience with western blotting, PCR, RNAseq and ChIP/CUT&RUN and animal handling techniques are preferred.

About the project:
The Comprehensive Cancer Center at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital is paving the way to markedly accelerate the discovery of therapeutic targets and approaches for childhood cancer by partnering with two of the world's leading research institutions. This new strategic project will use a 'team science' approach to use cutting-edge and exploratory technologies to identify vulnerabilities, biological mechanisms, and new combination therapies for children with cancer. St. Jude is seeking to hire a Sr Researcher or Lead Researcher as part of this exciting new large-scale scientific collaboration.

About the Comprehensive Cancer Center:
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital has the first and only National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center devoted solely to children. Our designation as a Comprehensive Cancer Center reflects leading excellence in laboratory, clinical and survivorship research, as well as leadership in education and community outreach. Ranked by the NCI with the highest possible score of 'Exceptional' for the past decade, the St. Jude Comprehensive Cancer Center collaboratively unites world-class researchers in pursuit of our mission to advance cures for childhood cancer through research and treatment. Learn more about us atwww.stjude.org.

Job Responsibilities:

• Performs laboratory experiments using existing, modified or newly developed techniques/protocols
• Sets up protocols, trouble shoots experiments using new or modified laboratory techniques
• Identifies experimental data pertinent to the analysis problem. Processes, organizes and summarizes data and reports results
• May assist in the drafting and editing of manuscripts.
• Provides basic lab operation support to include equipment maintenance and purchasing. Monitors inventory and orders lab supplies as needed. Performs calibration of instruments and equipment as necessary.
• Provides guidance to entry-level employees.
• Performs other related duties as assigned in order to meet the goals of the department and institution
• Maintains regular and predictable attendance

Minimum Education and/or Training:

• Bachelor's degree in relevant scientific area is required
• PhD degree highly preferred.

Senior Researcher

Minimum Experience:

• Two (2) years of relevant, post-degree work experience is required.
• No experience is required with a Master's degree.

Lead Researcher

Minimum Experience:

• Five (5) years of relevant, post-degree work experience is required
• Two (2) years of relevant post-degree work experience is required with a Master's degree
• No experience is required with a PHD

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 Sr Researcher or Lead Researcher - Pediatric Oncology - Durbin Lab.

Explore our exceptional benefits!

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital has a diverse, global patient population and workforce, built on the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion. Our founder Danny Thomas envisioned a hospital that would treat children of the worldregardless of race, religion or a familys ability to pay. Learn more about our history and commitment.

Today, we continue the mission to advance cures and means of prevention for pediatric catastrophic diseases through research and treatment. As we accelerate this progress globally, we believe our legacy of diversity, equity and inclusion is foundational to success. With the commitment of leaders at all levels of the organization, we strive to ensure the St. Jude culture, leadership approaches and talent processes are equitable and culturally responsive. View our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Report to learn about the hospitals roots in diversity, equity and inclusion, where we are today and our aspirations for an even better future.

St. Jude is an Equal Opportunity Employer

No Search Firms

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital does not accept unsolicited assistance from search firms for employment opportunities. Please do not call or email. All resumes submitted by search firms to any employee or other representative at St. Jude via email, the internet or in any form and/or method without a valid written search agreement in place and approved by HR will result in no fee being paid in the event the candidate is hired by St. Jude.