Postdoctoral Research Associate - Host Microbe Interactions

A postdoctoral position is available in the Rosch lab focusing on fundamental bacteriology and host-pathogen interactions of Streptococcus pneumoniae. Major areas of investigation include strategies to enhance vaccine protection, understanding of host factors that drive heightened susceptibility to infection, and mechanisms and consequences of antibiotic tolerance and resistance strategies. Projects will entail genetic manipulation of bacterial pathogens, molecular biology, protein purification and characterization, tissue culture, models of infectious disease, and bioinformatics. The successful candidate will have the capacity to work independently and as part of a fast-paced collaborative research environment.

Position Responsibilities

Research projects in the laboratory encompass a broad range of approaches, including genetic manipulation of bacterial pathogens, molecular biology, protein purification and characterization, tissue culture, animal models of infectious disease, and bioinformatic analyses. Candidates should possess strong foundational molecular biology skills and demonstrate a willingness to independently develop and implement new methodologies and experimental protocols. Excellent written and oral communication skills are essential.

Trainees will have opportunities to mentor undergraduate and graduate students, as well as collaborate with investigators within the Department of Host-Microbe Interactions and across the broader St. Jude research community. Candidates are expected to develop increasing scientific independence, including the design and execution of research projects, preparation of primary research manuscripts, and development of fellowship and training grant applications. Participation in departmental and institutional seminar series, professional development activities, and research training programs is expected.

Minimum Education and/or Training

A PhD in Microbiology or related discipline is required.

Special Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities

Required skills include experience with working with bacterial pathogens as well as experience with bacterial genetic manipulation and models of infection. Clear demonstration of a track record of research productivity and communication skills in terms of manuscripts published during graduate works is needed. The preferred candidate will have experience in bacterial metabolism, immunology, or bioinformatics with a specific emphasis on experience working with pathogenic streptococci.

About the lab and St. Jude

The Rosch lab provides a highly collaborative and well supported research environment focused on host-pathogen interactions in the respiratory tract. The lab utilizes a multidisciplinary approach, spanning fundamental microbiology and metabolisms to advanced bacterial genetics and sophisticated models of infection.  There are several opportunities for mentorship and career development training and trainees are actively engaged in several aspects of laboratory operations.

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is a world-class research institution dedicated to pediatric cancer and other catastrophic diseases of childhood. The first and only National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center devoted solely to children. Our 300 faculty work across the spectrum of basic, translational, clinical, and population science in a highly collaborative multidisciplinary environment that includes a Nobel laureate and members of the National Academy of Science and the National Academy of Medicine. St. Jude is ranked on Fortune Magazine’s “Best Workplaces in Health Care & Biopharma” and Glassdoor’s “Best Places to Work,” and is located in the heart of Memphis, Tennessee, a vibrant and friendly city at the historic American crossroads of music, trade, food and culture.

We are in pursuit of the brightest minds in biomedical sciences, individuals poised to contribute to our research progress. Other than access to top-quality scientists and mentors, as a postdoctoral trainee at St. Jude, you will have:

• A Blend of Academic Freedom and Industrial Efficiency: Access to shared resources and facilities led by expert scientists, coupled with cutting-edge technology, accelerates research productivity.

• Customized Professional and Career Growth: Experience specifically designed programs to enhance professional growth and career readiness empowering postdocs for success beyond their training. This includes access to grant writing workshops, individual development plans, teaching and mentoring opportunities, non-research career advancement programs, professional development allowance, and so much more.

• Competitive Compensation: Embark on your journey with a competitive salary starting a