Postdoctoral Research Associate - Oncology -Patel Lab

Project Description:

Our lab is interested in the control and regulation of intratumoral heterogeneity within pediatric cancers. In prior work, we have developed tools and methods to map the cellular diversity of pediatric tumors by adapting single-cell sequencing techniques to archival frozen tumors. In that work, we identified powerful developmental patterns that drive malignant cell state diversity. In rhabdomyosarcoma, we have identified key cell states that are drug-tolerant and drive recurrence. In current projects, we are working to elucidate how individual cell state identities are dynamically regulated during therapy and metastasis.

Position Responsibilities:

The postdoctoral fellow will work and, ultimately, will lead a multidisciplinary team focused on the study of rhabdomyosarcoma. Multiple projects are available, focused on the reciprocal interaction between tumor cells and the extracellular matrix, drivers of lineage plasticity in fusion-positive rhabdomyosarcoma, and regulators of tumor stem-like hierarchies in mixed cell populations. The fellow will be expected to develop skills in cell biology, single-cell sequencing, preclinical modeling, and epigenetic profiling. In addition to designing and performing experiments, the fellow will be expected to coordinate collaborations and prepare manuscripts for publication. Trainees will have access to professional development opportunities, including training in scientific communication, manuscript publication, and grant writing. The fellow will be encouraged (but not required) to prepare and submit grant proposals.

Minimum Education and/or Training:

The candidate should have a strong background in cancer biology, cell biology, or related fields. Candidates must have a Ph.D. in biology or computational biology.

Special Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities:

Experience in cell culture, epigenomics/transcriptomics, Western blotting, flow cytometry, and/or cell culture are desirable. Candidates with additional expertise in 3D cell culture, xenografting, and/or single-cell sequencing would be highly competitive. Bioinformatic experience would be welcomed, though no prior expertise is required for this position. Candidates should possess strong communication and interpersonal skills, be open to developing new and cutting-edge methods, and be highly motivated.

About the lab and St. Jude:

Upon completion of this postdoctoral fellowship, trainees are expected to be independent and prepared to be leaders in their field of choice. The Patel lab is a multidisciplinary group, and we bridge concepts from molecular biology, computational data science, mechanobiology, pharmacology and translational medicine. Trainees will have access to the deep technical expertise in the lab and participate in wide range of collaborations including other biologists, clinicians, computational biologists, and mathematicians.

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 at $72,500 a year, comprehensive benefits and generous relocation assistance, reflecting our commitment to recognize and invest in talent.
• A Sense of Community: St. Jude fosters a vibrant postdoc community that supports a well-balanced life. A dynamic environment promotes connections and camaraderie among postdocs from all backgrounds.

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