Scientist-Center for Pediatric Neurological Disease Research (CPNDR)

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St. Jude Children's Research Hospital is excited to announce an opening for a Scientist within the Center for Pediatric Neurological Disease Research (CPNDR). This pivotal role is part of the Pediatric Translational Neuroscience Initiative. This role will assist in innovative laboratory research involving the molecular bases of pediatric neurologic disease.  The successful applicant will be experienced in general neural cell culturing and the generation of iPSC-derived brain organoids.  They will also be broadly familiar with all standard molecular biology methodology and have a superior understanding of experimental design and data interpretation. Strong interpersonal skills and proficiency in scientific communication and record keeping are also required for this position.

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital has established an expansive initiative in translational neuroscience with a mission to understand and treat catastrophic childhood neurological disease.  This new initiative integrates basic and clinical neuroscience and partners with industry and foundations to develop and implement novel therapies. A key component of this is the Center for Pediatric Neurological Disease Research (CPNDR). 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.

CPNDR is They will work closely with the Brain Organoid Core Director to support brain organoid production and research, serving CPNDR investigators and other neuroscience researchers at St. Jude. 

The organoid resource is tasked with generating high-quality brain organoids such as forebrain, thalamic, cerebellar, and midbrain organoids. The core also provides guidance in the development and execution of new and existing techniques and procedures related to organoid generation, maintenance and usage. They will engage in projects focused on basic and translational research, enabling investigators to tackle diverse scientific questions. Strong interpersonal skills and proficiency in scientific communication and record keeping are also required for this position.

Job Responsibilities:

• Develop and perform procedures using established or modified techniques/protocols

• Implement new but established protocols without individual training

• Troubleshoot experiments and identify anomalies in own data

• Consistently monitors current literature and trends within field

• Accurately record experimental procedures and data

• Prepare and report results/ data leading to posters, presentations, or publications

• Provide guidance to less-experienced team members

• 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 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

Better at Work. Better at Life. 

When you work at St. Jude, you’ll join a highly collaborative work culture that inspires you every day to be your best.  With opportunities for learning and growth, you can shape a career path that is right for you while also enjoying all the benefits and stability of working for a world-class institution. This includes work-life balance with generous paid time-off and on-campus conveniences that make life a little easier. Join us and you’ll quickly see why St. Jude is consistently ranked by our employees on Glassdoor as a “Best Place to Work.”    

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