Postdoctoral Research Associate - Oncology
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
Summary
Postdoctoral fellowship in the laboratory of Dr. Charles Roberts in the Division of Molecular Oncology at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis, TN. Dr. Roberts is a leader in the field of cancer epigenetics, and his research has provided new insights into the central role of chromatin remodeling perturbations in cancer, discoveries that have been translated into investigational therapies for both pediatric and adult cancer patients.
Job description
His research specifically focuses on SWI/SNF (BAF) chromatin remodeling complexes. Perturbation of these complexes has broad relevance to cancer as at least nine genes that encode SWI/SNF subunits are collectively mutated in over 20% of all cancers, making this the most frequently mutated chromatin regulator in human malignancies.
Research in the Roberts laboratory is designed to discover the mechanisms by which SWI/SNF complexes regulate chromatin and transcriptional control and lineage specification, and the mechanisms by which mutation of SWI/SNF subunits drive cancer formation. We also seek to identify specific vulnerabilities that are conferred by SWI/SNF mutation with the goal of identifying novel therapeutic opportunities.
You will receive outstanding training in the development of scientific thinking and other skills such as grant writing, manuscript writing, and effective presentation, as well as have the freedom to develop your own ideas in a rigorous and supportive environment. Previous postdocs and graduate student trainees have successfully pursued careers as leaders in academia and industry.
The Division of Molecular Oncology and the top-notch core resources at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital will allow you access to the world-class expertise and technology necessary to perform high level science.
Requirements
- Recently earned or expect to earn a Ph.D.
- Published in peer-reviewed journals
- Strong background in molecular biology, genetics/epigenetics, cell biology, and/or cancer biology
Benefits
- Professional Development Allowance
- Travel support for scientific meetings
Company overview
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital is a world-renowned pediatric research and treatment institution headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee, dedicated to advancing cures for childhood cancer and other catastrophic diseases. Founded in 1962 by entertainer Danny Thomas, it stands as the first and only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center devoted exclusively to children. The hospital operates on a unique funding model where families never receive bills for treatment, travel, housing, or food, with costs exceeding $2 billion annually primarily supported by donations through its fundraising organization ALSAC. St. Jude treats approximately 8,600 patients each year from all 50 states and around the world, with a focus on acute lymphoblastic leukemia, brain tumors, sickle cell disease, and infectious diseases. The institution employs over 7,000 staff members and maintains eight affiliate clinics across the United States. Through its St. Jude Global initiative, the hospital shares research and treatment protocols internationally, partnering with more than 350 institutions in over 90 countries. St. Jude has been instrumental in increasing childhood cancer survival rates from 20% in 1962 to over 80% today, while maintaining a robust research program that includes gene therapy, bone marrow transplantation, and precision medicine approaches.