Postdoctoral Research Associate – Center of Excellence for Pediatric Immuno-Oncology – Zhao Lab

A postdoctoral research associate position is immediately available in the lab of Dr. Yunlong Zhao.

Dr. Yunlong Zhao, Assistant Member in the Center of Excellence for Pediatric Immuno-Oncology (CEPIO) and Department of Immunology, is seeking passionate and highly motivated candidates for a fully funded postdoctoral fellowship focused on unraveling the molecular mechanisms of anti-tumor immunity. Our lab’s primary interest lies in understanding how T-cell signaling pathways influence cancer progression, with the goal of identifying and developing novel immunotherapies. We aim to decipher the intricate interactions between T cell co-receptors and ligands and their role in shaping immune responses in the tumor microenvironment. 

Position Responsibilities:

In this position, you will collaborate with both basic scientists and clinicians to gain deep expertise and training in immunology, cell biology, biochemistry, and molecular biology. There will be opportunities to mentor students and interns, providing guidance and support in their research activities. You will have the opportunity to lead and develop projects using innovative models, including:

• Membrane reconstitution systems to study T cell signaling dynamics

• Cutting-edge CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing tools for targeted manipulation

• Advanced imaging platforms to visualize protein-protein interactions

• Primary human and murine immune cells for ex vivo and in vivo studies

Minimum Education and/or Training:

Successful applicants will hold a Ph.D. in immunology, cell biology, molecular biology, cancer biology, or a related discipline, along with a strong publication record (minimum of one first-author publication in a peer-reviewed journal).

Special Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities:

Applicants should have a solid background in studying protein-protein interaction and signal transduction and an interest in working in cancer immunology. Expertise in high-throughput screening, 3D imaging, or in vivo models of cancer is highly desirable. Strong analytical skills and a drive to contribute to innovative research are essential.

Required Skill Sets:

Technical Expertise: Immunology, cell biology, molecular biology techniques, and data analysis.

Research Experience: Experimental design, cell culture, and handling immune cells.

Communication: Scientific writing and presentation skills.

Collaboration: Experience working in multidisciplinary teams.

Preferred Skill Sets:

Advanced Techniques: Advanced imaging, omics techniques, and reconstitution systems.

Additional Knowledge: Grant writing and securing funding.

Soft Skills: Problem-solving, mentoring, adaptability, and learning agility.

About the lab and St. Jude:

The Zhao Lab fosters a collaborative and dynamic research environment, deeply committed to the professional development of its members. We value diversity and encourage active participation in career advancement opportunities, such as grant writing, attendance at immersive workshops, and presenting research at internal and external meetings.

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.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital has a diverse, global patient population and workforce, built on the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion. Our founder Danny Thomas envisioned a hospital that would treat children of the world—regardless of race, religion or a family’s ability to pay. Learn more about our history and commitment.

Today, we continue the mission to advance cures and means of prevention for pediatric catastrophic diseases through research and treatment. As we accelerate this progress globally, we believe our legacy of diversity, equity and inclusion is foundational to success. With the commitment of leaders at all levels of the organization, we strive to ensure the St. Jude culture, leadership approaches and talent processes are equitable and culturally responsive. View our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Report to learn about the hospital’s roots in diversity, equity and inclusion, where we are today and our aspirations for an even better future.

St. Jude is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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