Job Description

The Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation and Cellular Therapy (BMTCT) is seeking a talented and highly motivated Lead Researcher to conduct experiments under the overall direction of the Director of the Immune Monitoring Core (IMC). The IMC plays a central role in the department’s translational research program by performing molecular and functional immune monitoring for clinical studies in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, as well as cell and gene therapies, including CAR T cell therapy The successful candidate will independently conduct experiments, contribute to the development of novel assays, troubleshoot technical challenges, manage advanced instrumentation, accurately document experimental procedures and data, and collaborate closely with investigators and staff within and beyond the BMTCT department.

Responsibilities

Sample Processing & Laboratory Techniques

• Process clinical samples, including isolation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs).
• Perform molecular and cellular assays, including DNA/RNA extraction, ELISpot, qPCR/dPCR, and cytokine/chemokine analyses.

Collaboration & Reporting

• Maintain accurate, thorough, and compliant documentation of experimental procedures, results, and data analyses.

Instrumentation & Operations

• Operate and maintain advanced laboratory platforms, including QuantStudio 6/7, ABI 3500, Luminex FlexMap 3D, QIAcuity 4 Digital PCR, Qiagility liquid handler, Olink Signature Q100, and Maxwell RSC systems.
• Train laboratory personnel on instrument operation, data quality standards, and best practices.
• Support equipment maintenance, quality control (QC) tracking, LIMS documentation, SOP development and revisions, and inventory management.

Research & Assay Development

• Contributes to the development, optimization, and validation of immune monitoring assays to support departmental clinical trials.
• Design and conduct experiments, analyze data, and prepare scientific reports and presentations.
• Troubleshoot assay performance issues and refine workflows to improve efficiency and data quality.

Preferred experience:

• Hands-on experience with qPCR and/or dPCR, as well as strong proficiency in aseptic laboratory techniques.
• Experience with RNA and DNA isolation, cytokine assays, and PBMC preparation preferred.
• Strong communication, organizational (including data management), and analytical troubleshooting skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple concurrent priorities and rapidly learn new laboratory techniques.

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- Bone Marrow Transplantation and Cellular Therapy.

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