A Lead Researcher performs a variety of basic laboratory research tasks determined by the field and scope of the particular research project/study. Also, performs tasks related to the research project independently, but within specific guidelines which are subject to review by supervisor and/or other research staff.
A Lead Researcher position is available in the lab of Dr. Jian Xu at Center of Excellence for Leukemia Studies (CELS), Department of Pathology at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital to study the metabolic mechanisms controlling normal development and cancer pathogenesis. Our lab uses cutting-edge metabolomics, molecular/cell biology and bioinformatics approaches in a multi-disciplinary and collaborative team setting.

Our lab is equipped with cutting-edge metabolomics, genomics, molecular biology, and bioinformatics platforms, including in-house LC-MS and GS-MS-based metabolomic platforms, illumina sequencer, 10xGenomics single-cell technologies, and flow cytometry. Our team brings together enthusiastic scientists with diverse backgrounds and provides a wide range of perspectives in a multi-disciplinary and collaborative team setting. Since we established the laboratory in 2014, our team has published a series of impactful papers, which include:

• Development of a CRISPR-based CAPTURE approach for in situ analysis of chromatin interactions (Cell 170:1028, 2017)
• Reported that loss of EZH2 reprograms branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) metabolism to drive leukemic transformation (Cancer Discovery 9:1228, 2019)
• Discovered that the epigenetic silencing of LINE-1 retrotransposons is a selective dependency of myeloid leukemia (Nature Genetics 53:672, 2021)
• Described novel mechanisms driving therapy resistance to FDA-approved therapies in myeloid leukemia (Cancer Discovery 13:170, 2023)
• Discovered a glutamine metabolic switch essential for normal and pathological erythropoiesis (Science 386:eadh9215, 2024)

The Lead Researcher will drive the development and application of cutting-edge metabolism assays, including metabolomics, stable isotope tracing, and mitochondrial functional studies in preclinical models. Working closely with postdoctoral fellows and research specialists, this role will oversee assay design, optimization, and data interpretation, while ensuring scientific rigor and reproducibility. The Lead Researcher will also provide mentorship, foster collaboration, and help translate metabolic insights into innovative therapeutic strategies.
Candidates must hold a BS or MS degree with a strong background in biochemistry, metabolism research, and/or mass spectrometry. Previous experience in metabolomics and/or hematology-oncology is strongly preferred. Interested individuals should upload a CV, a short summary of research interest and experience, and a list of three references.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND/OR TRAINING:

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

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE:

• 5+ years of research experience is required
• 3+ years of experience is required with a Master’s degree
• No prior experience 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 lab setting, and execution of research projects for the laboratory preferred
• Proven performance in earlier role/comparable role

• Develop and perform procedures using established or modified techniques/protocols
• Implement new but established protocols without individual training
• Troubleshoot experiments and identify anomalies in own data
• Consistently monitors current literature and trends within field
• Accurately record experimental procedures and data
• Prepare and report results/ 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.