Job Description

The Associate Scientist performs a variety of moderately complex research tasks determined by the field and scope of the particular research project/study, and performs tasks related to the research project independently, but within broad guidelines and subject to periodic review by supervisor or other research staff.

The Escoubas Laboratory, within the Center of Excellence in Neuro-Oncology Sciences (CENOS) at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, is seeking a highly motivated Associate Scientist to join our growing research team. CENOS fosters a highly collaborative and innovative research environment dedicated to advancing discoveries that improve outcomes for children with brain tumors.

The Escoubas Lab investigates bidirectional communication between neurons and microglia through nucleic acid sensing pathways, with implications for neurodevelopment, neurological disease, and pediatric brain tumors.

This position is ideal for a candidate with a strong background in experimental neuroscience, immunology, or neuroimmunology, and hands-on experience with brain tumor models, histology, and imaging techniques.

The successful candidate will have demonstrated expertise in in vivo experimental methods, including stereotaxic and intracerebroventricular (ICV) injections, transcardial perfusion, tissue collection and processing, immunofluorescence staining, and confocal microscopy. Experience with primary neural cell culture (microglia, neurons, and astrocytes) and preclinical research resources is highly desirable. The individual selected for this role will be expected to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research environment, drive projects toward publication, and contribute to the establishment and optimization of laboratory protocols as the lab continues to expand.

The Associate Scientist will be expected to:

• Conduct in vivo studies using preclinical research models, including intracerebroventricular (ICV) injections, behavioral assessments, transcardial perfusion, tissue collection, and downstream analyses.
• Process brain tissue for histological evaluation, including cryosectioning, immunofluorescence staining, and confocal microscopy.
• Culture and maintain primary neural cell populations (including microglia, neurons, and astrocytes) as well as established cell lines to support in vitro research studies.
• Analyze, quantify, and interpret experimental and imaging data while maintaining detailed and accurate records of methods, results, and study outcomes.
• Coordinate and maintain preclinical research resources, including genotyping workflows, research support activities, and associated record keeping.
• Collaborate effectively with laboratory members, institutional core facilities, and research colleagues across departments.
• Contribute to manuscript preparation, data presentation, and dissemination of research findings.
• Assist in the development, optimization, and standardization of laboratory procedures and protocols.
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of the scientific goals of the laboratory and institution.

Minimum Education and/or Training:

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant scientific area

Minimum Experience:

• 7 + years of research experience is required
• 5 + years of research experience is required with a Master’s degree
• 2 + years of research experience is required with a PHD
• Experience leading and supporting research experiments preferred
• Some experience leading lab and scientific project coordination, maintenance, and other research support activities preferred
• Experience in guiding and training other laboratory personnel 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 $65,520 - $114,400 per year for the role of Associate Scientist - Escoubas Laboratory - Center of Excellence in Neuro-Oncology Sciences (CENOS).

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