Associate Scientist OR Lead Researcher-Flow Cytometry and Cell Sorting Shared Resource

The Flow Cytometry and Cell Sorting Shared Resource at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is seeking an innovative and highly motivated Associate Scientist or Lead Researcher to join a team dedicated to advancing the frontiers of cytometry. Under the leadership of Dr. Daniel Vocelle, Director of the Flow Cytometry and Cell Sorting Shared Resource, we are entering a period of rapid growth. This year, we will be adding several new instruments to our lineup, and this position will play a key role in their evaluation and implementation. This role supports both core operations and research innovation, including instrument beta testing, assay development, cell sorting, automated sample processing, and high-parameter analysis methods. The ideal candidate will bring a collaborative spirit, and a passion for training and education. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of cytometry while contributing to life-saving pediatric research.

As a key member of our team, you will play a hands-on role in advancing core operations, supporting diverse and dynamic research programs, helping to develop novel instrumentation, automating sample processing workflows and assay development, and even next-generation high-parameter analysis methods. You’ll work side by side with leading investigators at St. Jude and collaborate with instrument manufacturers, global cytometry thought leaders, to redefine what’s possible in cytometry, all in support of St. Jude’s mission: To advance cures, and means of prevention, for pediatric catastrophic diseases through research and treatment.

Job Responsibilities:

• Independently perform experiments using existing, modified, or newly developed techniques/ protocols on cell sorters or analyzers.

• 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.

• Perform regular cell sorting services

• Assist in the drafting and editing of manuscripts, posters, SOPs, and policies.

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of the field and related techniques.

• Provide ongoing support for monitoring, maintenance, ordering, and purchasing of equipment and supplies as needed.

• Perform calibration of instruments and equipment as necessary.

• Provide guidance and training to less-experienced team members and may also train others outside lab in relevant techniques.

• Perform other duties as assigned to meet the goals and objectives of the department and the institution.

• Proven ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively with a diverse group of researchers, staff, and cross-departmental teams in a core facility or research setting is preferred.

• Track record of providing responsive, professional, and user-focused customer service in a research or core facility environment, ensuring a positive experience for all users is preferred. 

• Demonstrated problem-solving abilities and adaptability in resolving user inquiries and troubleshooting instrument-related issues in a timely and efficient manner is preferred. 

Associate Scientist

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

Lead Researcher

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/comparabl