Associate Scientist/ Scientist Vakoc's lab
About The Position
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital is seeking a highly motivated Associate Scientist or Scientist to join Dr. Christopher Vakoc's laboratory in the Department of Oncology. The laboratory studies how transcription factors, chromatin regulators, and other gene-regulatory mechanisms shape cancer cell identity and tumor progression, using genetic, genomic, and biochemical approaches to identify vulnerabilities in aggressive cancers. Its work includes developing and applying CRISPR-Cas9 screening technologies to identify cancer-specific genetic dependencies and potential therapeutic targets. The position contributes to research aimed at understanding genetic dependencies and lineage plasticity in cancer, advancing vulnerabilities into drug targets, evaluating targets with in vivo genetic models, and developing strategies to reprogram tumor cells into terminally differentiated states. The successful candidate will conduct and support research using molecular biology, cell biology, and genomics methods; analyze and communicate findings; and contribute to laboratory operations and training. A bachelor's degree in a relevant scientific area is required. Experience thresholds vary by role and degree: Scientist candidates need 8 years of relevant experience, 6 with a master's degree, or 3 with a PhD; Associate Scientist candidates need 7 or more years of research experience, 5 or more with a master's degree, or 2 or more with a PhD. The stated annual salary range is $86,320–$154,960.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in a relevant scientific area.
- Scientist: 8 years of relevant work experience; 6 years with a master's degree; or 3 years with a PhD.
- Associate Scientist: 7 or more years of research experience; 5 or more years with a master's degree; or 2 or more years with a PhD.
- Experience in several of the following areas: molecular biology techniques involving DNA, RNA, and protein analysis; mammalian tissue culture and cellular assays; molecular cloning and genetic engineering; lentiviral vector design and transduction; functional genomics or CRISPR-based technologies; in vivo research using mouse and/or zebrafish models; and investigation of gene function and cellular mechanisms.
- Strong expertise in molecular and cellular biology is highly desirable.
- Strong critical-thinking and problem-solving skills; ability to work collaboratively while maintaining scientific independence.
Nice To Haves
- Experience in biochemistry (not a primary focus of the role).
- A track record of productivity during graduate or postdoctoral training; publications are preferred but not required for exceptional candidates.
- Experience with mouse and/or zebrafish models, functional genomics, or CRISPR-based technologies.
Responsibilities
- Conduct and support research projects using molecular biology, cell biology, and genomics techniques.
- Perform experiments involving DNA, RNA, and protein analysis, mammalian cell culture, molecular cloning, lentiviral systems, and CRISPR-based technologies.
- Use mouse and/or zebrafish models to investigate gene function, disease mechanisms, and cellular pathways.
- Design, optimize, and execute research protocols; analyze, interpret, and summarize experimental data.
- Contribute to scientific presentations, reports, and manuscript preparation.
- Maintain laboratory operations, including equipment maintenance, troubleshooting, inventory management, and supply ordering.
- Train and support laboratory personnel in standard techniques and procedures.
- Perform other duties as assigned to support departmental and institutional research goals.
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
