The Associate Scientist position will have responsibilities in both the Single Cell Genomics Core and the Neurocytometry Core within the Department of Developmental Neurobiology at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. The candidate will independently perform tasks related to both cores — supporting single-cell sample processing, sequencing workflows, flow cytometry, instrument operation, user training, and multicolor panel design.
The Single Cell Genomics and Neurocytometry Cores provide investigators studying the developing and diseased nervous system with access to single-cell genomic and flow cytometric technologies optimized for neural tissue.
The Associate Scientist will support both cores, helping researchers isolate cells or nuclei and generate high-quality single-cell and flow cytometry datasets in support of developmental neurobiology, cancer, and translational research programs across the institution. This position combines hands-on operation, troubleshooting, and quality control of single-cell sequencing platforms (e.g., 10x Genomics Chromium) with instrument setup, calibration, and multicolor panel design on flow cytometers and cell sorters. The successful candidate will work closely with core leadership and investigators across the Department of Developmental Neurobiology to optimize tissue dissociation protocols, complete library preparations, develop and run new high-parameter cytometry panels, and train users on both platforms.
The ideal candidate will have the following:
- Strong background in developmental biology, molecular biology, neuroscience, stem cell biology, or a closely related field.
- Strong competence in designing, executing, and troubleshooting independent experiments using existing or newly developed protocols.
- Experience with single-cell genomic workflows (e.g., 10x Genomics Chromium, single-cell RNA-seq library preparation) is preferred.
- Familiarity with neural tissue dissociation and analysis of neuronal, glial, and other cell populations in the brain and spinal cord.
- Hands-on experience with flow cytometry and cell sorting instrumentation, including instrument setup, calibration, and troubleshooting.
- Proficient knowledge of molecular biology and experience designing and analyzing multicolor/high parameter flow cytometry panels.
- Demonstrated experience with flow data analysis platforms (e.g., FlowJo, DIVA, OMIQ) and Microsoft Office products.
- Demonstrated success in training and supporting other technicians, students, and investigators.
- Strong organizational and communication skills
- Positive attitude with strong interpersonal skills and a collaborative, team-oriented approach. Interest in learning new technologies
Job Responsibilities:
- Independently perform experiments using existing, modified, or newly developed techniques/protocols.
- Accurately record experimental procedures and data
- Prepare and report results/ data leading to posters, presentations, or publications
- Set up protocols using new or modified laboratory techniques and troubleshoot experiments independently.
- Identify experimental data pertinent to the analysis problem; process, organize, and summarize data; report results.
- Independently perform single-cell sample processing, including neural tissue/cell dissociation, viability assessment, and loading onto single-cell sequencing platforms (e.g., 10x Genomics Chromium).
- Coordinate sample intake, quality control, and sequencing run scheduling for the Single Cell Genomics Core and communicate results and troubleshooting steps to investigators.
- Establish, modify, and implement Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for routine maintenance and performance evaluation of flow cytometers and associated instrumentation.
- Independently perform instrument setup, sample acquisition, calibration, alignment, troubleshooting; oversee instrument repair and service coordination.
- Train technicians, students, and investigators on cytometry concepts, including instrument startup/shutdown, routine maintenance, sample acquisition, and basic data analysis.
- Collaborate with investigators to develop, evaluate, and optimize multicolor flow cytometry assays, including high-parameter panels.
- Perform regular cell sorting services and support users in developing technically sound, biologically relevant cytometry-based approaches.
- Provide ongoing support for monitoring, maintenance, ordering, and purchasing of equipment and supplies as needed.
- Perform other duties as assigned to meet the goals and objectives of the department and the institution.
- Maintain regular and predictable attendance.
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 - Single Cell Genomics Core / Neurocytometry Core.
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