Job Description

We are seeking a postdoctoral fellow to investigate LRRK2 signaling pathways in healthy and Parkinson’s disease (PD) conditions. LRRK2 is a major genetic risk factor for PD and a leading therapeutic target. The project emphasizes cryo-EM structural studies to characterize LRRK2 signaling in disease states and identify novel therapeutic strategies for PD.

Ideal Candidate

We seek a self-motivated scientist with excellent communication skills, rigorous training, and a strong publication record to lead a highly challenge project. Required qualifications include:

• Ability to independently design, execute, and troubleshoot experiments

• Strong computational skills for processing complex cryo-EM datasets

• Enthusiasm and demonstrated ability to rapidly learn new techniques

• Prior training in related fields: biochemistry, cell biology, or structural biology

Sun Lab Environment

The Sun Lab is a highly interdisciplinary and collaborative group focused on understanding the molecular basis of biological systems and developing therapies for human diseases. Members benefit from seamless access to cutting-edge shared resources at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, including the Cryo-EM Center, Protein Technology Center, Center for Proteomics and Metabolomics, and Cell & Tissue Imaging Center.

Professional Development Opportunities

• Hands-on training in advanced techniques, including cryo-EM, cell imaging and protein biochemistry.

• Active participation in interdisciplinary collaborations

• Regular involvement in lab meetings, journal clubs, and development of critical thinking skills

• Training in paper writing and grant application

About St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

St. Jude is consistently ranked among Fortune’s “100 Best Companies to Work For” and as a top institution for academia by The Scientist. Located in Memphis, Tennessee—a vibrant, affordable city known for its rich musical heritage, world-class dining, theater, and abundant green spaces—St. Jude offers a supportive research environment. St. Jude employees enjoy competitive, experience-based compensation (with researchers paid at industry-competitive rates) and comprehensive benefits, including excellent healthcare plans with minimal or no premiums, generous retirement contributions, an onsite health clinic, pharmacy, and fitness facilities, paid parental leave and adoption assistance, immigration support, and tuition reimbursement.

Minimum Education and Training

• Ph.D. in a relevant field (e.g., biochemistry, structural biology, biophysics, or cell biology)

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.