Senior Microbial Researcher — Host-Microbe Lab Lead

We are seeking a Lead Researcher or Senior Researcher to join the Department of Host-Microbe Interactions within the Microbial Biorepository Collaborative Center. The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in microbiology, with hands‑on experience in the genetic and phenotypic characterization of diverse bacterial species. Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential, along with a demonstrated ability to maintain accurate, timely records and manage complex databases.

This role involves close collaboration with both basic scientists and clinical laboratories to support a range of daily experimental activities, including microbial strain cultivation, phenotypic characterization, nucleic acid extraction, whole genome sequencing, and coordination of strain imports and investigator requests. The ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team in a dynamic lab environment is required.

• Perform processes and procedures using established techniques and protocols with increased efficiency and independence.
• Provide some lab operational support with increased knowledge of the lab environment.
• Execute and follow more complex procedures and protocols and provide basic troubleshooting of experiments.
• Accurately record experimental procedures and data.
• Prepare and report results and data leading to posters, presentations, or publications.
• Provide guidance to less‑experienced team members.
• Perform other related duties as assigned to meet the goals and objectives of the department and the institution.
• Maintain regular and predictable attendance.

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant scientific area is required.

• Two (2) years of research experience is required with a bachelor’s degree.
• No prior experience is required with a Master’s degree.
• Working knowledge and understanding of underlying concepts and principles of experimental design.
• Experience with the most widely used techniques used in the home laboratory.
• Proven performance in an earlier role or comparable role.

In recognition of certain U.S. state and municipal pay transparency laws, St. Jude is including a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role. This is an estimate offered in good faith and a specific salary offer takes into account factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets, experience and training, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs.

A reasonable estimate of the current salary range is $26.00 – $45.50 per hour for the role of Senior Researcher.

• Develop and perform procedures using established or modified techniques and protocols.
• Implement new but established protocols without individual training.
• Troubleshoot experiments and identify anomalies in own data.
• Consistently monitor current literature and trends within the field.
• Accurately record experimental procedures and data.
• Prepare and report results and data leading to posters, presentations, or publications.
• Provide guidance to less‑experienced team members.
• Perform other duties as assigned to meet the goals and objectives of the department and the institution.
• Maintain regular and predictable attendance.

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant scientific area is required.

• Five or more years of research experience is required.
• Three or more years of experience is required with a Master’s degree.
• No prior experience is required with a PhD.
• Strong knowledge and experience in understanding and application of underlying principles related to techniques being performed.
• Experience in R&D methods and processes in a lab setting, and execution of research projects for the laboratory is preferred.
• Proven performance in an earlier role or comparable role.

In recognition of certain U.S. state and municipal pay transparency laws, St. Jude is including a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role. A reasonable estimate of the current salary range is $60,320 – $105,040 per year for the role of Lead Researcher or Senior Researcher – Microbial Biorepository Collaborative Center (HMI).

St. Jude is an Equal Opportunity Employer.