Senior Scientist- Brain Organoid Biology for Pediatric Neurological Disease Research

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital Center for Pediatric Neurological Disease Research is seeking a Senior Scientist to oversee a brain organoid core to support researchers working on pediatric neurological disease pathogenesis and treatment. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in the derivation and generation of iPSC-derived brain organoids, including the successful establishment of organoids and assembloids representing various brain regions.

In this role, the Senior Scientist will work closely with the CPNDR Director to provide a brain organoid production and research resource for CPNDR investigators and other neuroscience researchers at St. Jude. The organoid resource will be tasked with generating consistently high-quality brain organoid types, including forebrain, thalamic, cerebellar, and midbrain organoids. Additionally, the role involves offering guidance on developing and executing techniques and procedures related to organoid generation and maintenance.

Collaboration on basic and translational research projects is a key aspect of this position, enabling investigators to explore a wide range of scientific questions. The role also requires exceptional interpersonal skills, proficiency in scientific communication, and strong organizational and administrative abilities. Successful applicants will hold a PhD or MD/PhD degree, have relevant postgraduate experience, and have a demonstrated track record of productivity. Interested should submit a summary of accomplishments and research publications along with a resume.

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital has established an expansive initiative in translational neuroscience with a mission to understand and treat catastrophic childhood neurological diseases. This new initiative integrates basic and clinical neuroscience and partners with industry and foundations to develop and implement novel therapies. The Center for Pediatric Neurological Disease Research (CPNDR) is a key component of this. Principal Investigators in CPNDR employ innovative laboratory-based research programs using cutting-edge approaches in molecular, genetic, biochemical, biophysical, cellular anatomical, and behavioral approaches to elucidate disease mechanisms and test therapeutic strategies relevant to understanding and treating pediatric neurological disease.

Job Responsibilities:

• Conducts experiments/projects independently under overall direction of the PI and/or more senior scientist

• Develops new research protocols, techniques and procedures.

• Identifies experimental data pertinent to the analysis problem. Processes, organizes and summarizes data, reporting these experimental results. Monitors quality and integrity of recorded information and data. Ensures data collection and entry methods meet quality standards. Interprets data as it relates to research problem.

• May publish as co-author and/or draft sections of research manuscripts as necessary. Presents research to colleagues within the organization or at external meetings/events.

• Provides lab operation support and makes recommendations regarding equipment use and maintenance, supplies, etc. Troubleshoots instrument and equipment issues. Provides input into lab operation processes and procedures. Recommends equipment acquisition and decommissioning.

• Regularly trains and oversees the work of others in laboratory techniques and procedures.

• Performs other related duties as assigned in order to meet the goals of the department and institution.

• Maintains regular and predictable attendance

Minimum Education and/or Training:

• Bachelor's degree in relevant scientific area is required

• Postgraduate degree preferred

Minimum Experience:

• Ten (10) years relevant post-degree work experience is required

• Eight (8) years of relevant post-degree work experience is required with a Master's degree

• Six (6) years of relevant post-degree work experience is required with a PhD

Compensation

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Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital has a diverse, global patient population and workforce, built on the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion. Our founder Danny Thomas envisioned a hospital that would treat children of the world-regardless of race, religion or a family's ability to pay. Learn more about our history and commitment.

Today, we continue the mission to advance cures and means of prevention for pediatric catastrophic diseases through research and treatment. As we accelerate this progress globally, we believe our legacy of diversity, equity and inclusion is foundational to success. With the commitment of leaders at all levels of the organization, we strive to ensure the St. Jude culture, leadership approaches and talent processes are equitable and culturally responsive. View our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Report to learn about the hospital's roots in diversity, equity and inclusion, where we are today and our aspirations for an even better future.

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