Postdoctoral Research Associate - Therapeutic Genome Engineering

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital • Memphis, TN

7d • Onsite

About The Position

A postdoctoral fellowship is available in the laboratory of Dr. Jonathan Yen in the Division of Experimental Hematology. We are seeking a highly motivated and talented Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join our cutting-edge research team focused on developing lipid nanoparticle (LNP)-based therapeutic strategies for targeting hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). The successful candidate will work in a collaborative and interdisciplinary environment to advance novel genome editor delivery technologies and improve therapeutic outcomes in hematological disorders.

Requirements

• PhD in Molecular Biology, Bioengineering, Material Science Engineering, Chemical and biological engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or related field.
• Strong expertise in mRNA nanoparticle formulation and characterization, gene delivery systems, or lipid-based therapeutics.
• Experience with microfluidic-based LNP formulation.
• Proficiency in DLS, zeta potential analysis, and RiboGreen RNA quantification.
• Knowledge of conjugation chemistry for targeted delivery.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a research-driven environment.

Nice To Haves

• Expertise in hematopoietic stem cell biology, bone marrows niche, or hematology is highly desirable.
• Experience with animal models, preclinical research, and HSC transplantation.
• Familiarity with genome editing technologies (CRISPR-Cas9, base editing, prime editing) for therapeutic applications.
• Proficiency in molecular and cellular biology techniques, with an emphasis on gene editing and mRNA delivery.
• Experience with HPLC analysis and drug development is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Design, synthesize, and characterize LNP formulations optimized for targeting HSCs.
• Optimize lipid composition, particle size, and surface modifications (e.g., antibody conjugation for HSC targeting).
• Perform dynamic light scattering (DLS), zeta potential, and RiboGreen RNA concentration analyses to characterize nanoparticles.
• Utilize molecular biology techniques such as PCR, qRT-PCR, flow cytometry, and imaging to assess LNP performance and HSC function.
• Conduct high-throughput screening of LNP formulations to evaluate gene delivery efficiency and specificity.
• Work with hematopoietic stem cell models to assess LNP-mediated gene delivery.
• If applicable, perform HSC isolation, transplantation, and functional assays in preclinical models.
• Develop novel strategies to enhance LNP targeting, uptake, and efficiency in HSCs.
• Address key barriers in genome editor delivery, including specificity, stability, and immune response.
• Work closely with a multidisciplinary team of researchers and clinicians to advance therapeutic applications.
• Contribute to manuscripts, presentations, and grant applications.
• Present findings at internal meetings and scientific conferences.

Benefits

• Access to shared resources and facilities led by expert scientists, coupled with cutting-edge technology, accelerates research productivity.
• Customized professional and career growth programs to enhance professional growth and career readiness.
• Access to grant writing workshops, individual development plans, teaching and mentoring opportunities, non-research career advancement programs, professional development allowance.
• Competitive salary starting at $72,500 a year.
• Comprehensive benefits.
• Generous relocation assistance.
• A vibrant postdoc community that supports a well-balanced life.
• A dynamic environment promotes connections and camaraderie among postdocs from all backgrounds.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree