Postdoctoral Research Associate - Therapeutic Genome Engineering

A postdoctoral fellowship is available in the laboratory of Dr. Jonathan Yen in the Division of Experimental Hematology.

Project Description:

We are seeking a highly motivated and talented Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join our cutting-edge research team focused on developing lipid nanoparticle (LNP)-based therapeutic strategies for targeting hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). The successful candidate will work in a collaborative and interdisciplinary environment to advance novel genome editor delivery technologies and improve therapeutic outcomes in hematological disorders.

Position Responsibilities:

LNP Design and Characterization

• Design, synthesize, and characterize LNP formulations optimized for targeting HSCs.

• Optimize lipid composition, particle size, and surface modifications (e.g., antibody conjugation for HSC targeting).

• Perform dynamic light scattering (DLS), zeta potential, and RiboGreen RNA concentration analyses to characterize nanoparticles.

Molecular and Cellular Biology

• Utilize molecular biology techniques such as PCR, qRT-PCR, flow cytometry, and imaging to assess LNP performance and HSC function.

• Conduct high-throughput screening of LNP formulations to evaluate gene delivery efficiency and specificity.

Preclinical Research & Translation

• Work with hematopoietic stem cell models to assess LNP-mediated gene delivery.

• If applicable, perform HSC isolation, transplantation, and functional assays in preclinical models.

Innovation & Problem-Solving

• Develop novel strategies to enhance LNP targeting, uptake, and efficiency in HSCs.

• Address key barriers in genome editor delivery, including specificity, stability, and immune response.

Collaboration & Communication

• Work closely with a multidisciplinary team of researchers and clinicians to advance therapeutic applications.

• Contribute to manuscripts, presentations, and grant applications.

• Present findings at internal meetings and scientific conferences.

Minimum Education and/or Training:

• PhD in Molecular Biology, Bioengineering, Material Science Engineering, Chemical and biological engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or related field.

Special Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities:

Required Skills:

• Strong expertise in mRNA nanoparticle formulation and characterization, gene delivery systems, or lipid-based therapeutics.

• Experience with microfluidic-based LNP formulation.

• Proficiency in DLS, zeta potential analysis, and RiboGreen RNA quantification.

• Knowledge of conjugation chemistry for targeted delivery.

• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.

• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a research-driven environment.

Preferred Skills:

• Expertise in hematopoietic stem cell biology, bone marrows niche, or hematology is highly desirable.

• Experience with animal models, preclinical research, and HSC transplantation.

• Familiarity with genome editing technologies (CRISPR-Cas9, base editing, prime editing) for therapeutic applications.

• Proficiency in molecular and cellular biology techniques, with an emphasis on gene editing and mRNA delivery.

• Experience with HPLC analysis and drug development is a plus.

About the lab and St. Jude:

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 scienti