Scientist - Yen Lab​/TGEn Group; Hematopoietic Stem Cell, Genome Editing

Overview

The Scientist performs and/or coordinates a wide range of laboratory research procedures and conducts a spectrum of complex support tasks and projects determined by the field and scope of the particular research study. The role involves performing a variety of laboratory techniques independently and presenting results. The position is within Dr. Jonathan Yen’s Laboratory in the Therapeutic Genome Engineering (TGEn) group e Children’s Research Hospital, focusing on advancing genome editing strategies for treating sickle cell disease to a Phase 1 clinical trial.

• Perform studies to develop genome editing strategies for human hematopoietic stem cells (HSC).
• Design and execute IND‑enabling experiments to characterize the pharmacology of a genome‑edited HSC product to treat sickle cell disease.
• Characterize the efficacy, safety, and potency of the HSC cellular drug product in in vitro and xenotransplantation assays.
• Conduct multicolor flow cytometry and FACS to sort hematopoietic populations of relevance.
• Develop experimental methods including RT‑PCR, ddPCR, next‑generation sequencing, and single‑cell sequencing.
• Perform NGS library preparation and analysis of editing outcomes, on‑target and off‑target.
• Evaluate scale‑up and close‑system processes to ensure reproducibility of the drug product.
• Conduct exploratory research on developing novel in‑vitro and in‑vivo delivery strategies.
• Interact and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to advance the program.
• Establish tracking and trending analyses of process development and pilot runs.
• Draft documentation (protocols, batch records, reports) to standardize and transfer process to GMP facility.
• Maintain regular and predictable attendance.
• Perform other related duties as assigned to meet the goals of the department and institution.

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant scientific area is required.
• Master’s or PhD degree in a relevant scientific area is highly preferred.

• Eight (8) years of relevant post‑degree work experience is required with a Bachelor’s degree.
• Six (6) years of relevant post‑degree work experience is required with a Master’s degree.
• Three (3) years of relevant post‑degree work experience is required with a PhD.
• Experience leading and supporting research experiments preferred.
• Some experience leading lab and scientific project coordination, maintenance, and other research support activities preferred.
• Experience in guiding and training other laboratory personnel preferred.
• Proven performance in an earlier role/comparable role.

Reasonable estimate of the salary range for this role is $86,320 – $154,960 per year.

St. Jude is an Equal Opportunity Employer.