Job Posting Title Postdoctoral Research Associate - Moreno Lab

About the role

The Moreno lab at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to join a team investigating the emergence and evolution of bacterial pathogens. The position involves leading studies on molecular and ecological drivers of pathogen emergence, working at the intersection of molecular microbiology, host-pathogen interactions, and structural biology.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute experiments to understand the molecular and ecological drivers of pathogen emergence.
• Lead research projects at the interface of molecular microbiology, host-pathogen interactions, and structural biology.
• Analyze large-scale proteomic data and interpret results.
• Contribute to the development of novel projects and proposals.
• Collaborate extensively with microbiologists, structural biologists, computational modelers, and chemical biologists both within the lab, across the institution, and with external collaborators.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Structural Biology, or a related discipline.
• Strong foundation in molecular biology, mass spectrometry-based proteomics, or chemical probe development.
• Experience with protein complex analysis, crosslinking chemistry, or integrative modeling is advantageous but not required.
• Demonstrated ability to design and execute experiments independently and to critically analyze data.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to contribute to manuscripts, presentations, and collaborative discussions.
• Commitment to scientific rigor, integrity, and teamwork in a multidisciplinary environment.

Qualifications

• A demonstrated record of scientific productivity, critical thinking, and collaborative research is essential.

Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities

• Strong background in molecular biology, microbiology, or structural biology.
• Extensive experience with bacteriology, advanced molecular microbiology techniques.
• Demonstrated ability to design and execute experiments independently and to critically analyze data.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to contribute to manuscripts, presentations, and collaborative discussions.
• Commitment to scientific rigor, integrity, and teamwork in a multidisciplinary environment.

Benefits

The position offers extensive collaboration with microbiologists, structural biologists, computational modelers, and chemical biologists both within the lab, across the institution, and with external collaborators. It also provides a competitive salary starting at $72,500 a year, comprehensive benefits, and generous relocation assistance.

Pay

$72,500 - $90,000 annually

Schedule

Full-time, 40 hours per week