Scientist, Elitzur Lab

The laboratory of Dr. Sarah Elitzur in the Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, is seeking a research scientist to lead investigations into rare and understudied subgroups of hematologic malignancies. Our lab is focused on characterizing the genomic, molecular, and clinical features of uncommon hematologic malignancy subtypes, with the goal of defining novel biological mechanisms and identifying therapeutic vulnerabilities for patient populations that remain underrepresented in mainstream research. This is an excellent opportunity for a scientist interested in working at the intersection of rare disease biology, precision medicine, and translational hematology-oncology. 

The successful candidate will perform and coordinate a wide range of laboratory research procedures and conduct complex research projects within the field of pediatric leukemia and lymphoma. This role requires the ability to perform a variety of advanced laboratory techniques independently, analyze and interpret experimental data, and present research findings. The individual will contribute to ongoing research initiatives while supporting the development of new experimental approaches and technologies that advance the laboratory's scientific goals. 

Job Responsibilities: 

• Coordinates multiple aspects of research projects and carries out laboratory experiments utilizing various laboratory techniques, and determines whether additional or other tools or methods are required 

• Provides input regarding research protocols and experiments. Sets up protocols and assists in developing new laboratory techniques as required. 

• Identifies experimental data pertinent to the analysis problem. Processes, organizes and summarizes data, reporting these experimental results as required. Monitors quality and integrity of recorded information and data 

• May draft sections of research manuscripts. 

• Provides basic lab operation support to include equipment maintenance and purchasing. Monitors inventory levels and orders lab supplies as needed. Performs calibration of instruments and equipment. Troubleshoots instrument performance and equipment issues. 

• Lead and manage research projects focused on the molecular characterization of hematologic malignancies 

• Design and execute experiments using genomic, transcriptomic, and functional approaches to define disease mechanisms 

• Integrate and analyze large-scale sequencing and clinical datasets, including collaboration with international consortia when relevant 

• Establish and maintain patient-derived models representing rare disease subtypes 

• Contribute to manuscript preparation, grant writing, and presentation of findings at scientific conferences 

• Maintain meticulous records and ensure regulatory compliance for human subjects research 

• Instructs other staff in basic laboratory techniques and procedures. 

• Maintains regular and predictable attendance 

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

Preferred Qualifications 

• Ph.D. and/or equivalent research experience in cancer biology, genetics, genomics, molecular biology, or a related field 

• Demonstrated experience with genomic and/or transcriptomic analysis (e.g., RNA-seq, WES/WGS, single-cell sequencing) 

• Experience working with rare disease cohorts, biobanked samples, or multi-institutional data sharing is a strong plus 

• Strong analytical and bioinformatics skills, or willingness to collaborate closely with computational biologists 

• Track record of scientific productivity (publications, presentations) appropriate to career stage 

• Excellent organizational and communication skills, with the ability to manage multiple concurrent projects 

• Experience mentoring trainees is desirable 

Minimum Education and/or Training: 

• Bachelor's degree in relevant scientific area is required. 

Minimum Experience:  

• Eight (8) years of relevant work experience is required 

• Six (6) years of relevant work experience is required with a Master's degree 

• Three (3) years of relevant work experience is required with a PhD