Lead Researcher / Scientist - Mefford Lab

at  St Jude Childrens Research Hospital

Join Our Team!
Dr. Heather Mefford seeks a passionate and innovative Lead Researcher or Scientist to join her dynamic team within the Center for Pediatric Neurological Disease Research division. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research in the field of pediatric epilepsy, focusing on gene discovery and the genetic and biological basis of these conditions.
As a Lead Researcher or Scientist, you will conduct laboratory research focused on the genetic basis of rare forms of epilepsy and related neurodevelopmental disorders. You will identify novel mutations and assess their biological implications to inform precision therapeutic development. You will collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to advance understanding of genetic epilepsies.
The overarching goal of Mefford lab is to identify and characterize genetic causes of pediatric disease, with a primary focus on the severe pediatric epilepsies and related neurodevelopmental disorders. We apply state-of-the-art genome-wide technologies to identify disease-associated genetic, genomic and epigenetic variants, followed by clinical and molecular characterization of novel genetic disorders. Using these approaches, our research highlights new genes and pathways important in brain development and epileptogenesis.
Mefford Lab is at the forefront of investigating the genetic underpinnings of pediatric epilepsies, striving to uncover the complexities of these conditions. By joining our team, you will play a crucial role in developing precision therapies tailored to individual patients based on their genetic profiles. Your work will directly impact the lives of children affected by epilepsy and their families.
If you are driven by scientific inquiry and eager to contribute to meaningful advancements in pediatric neurology, we encourage you to apply!

SCIENTIST REQUIREMENTS

Minimum Education :

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

Minimum Experience:

• Seven (7) years of relevant post-degree work experience is required
• Five (5) 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

LEAD RESEARCHER REQUIREMENTS

Minimum Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in relevant scientific area is required

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE:

• Five (5) years of relevant, post-degree work experience is required
• Two (2) years of relevant post-degree work experience is required with a Master’s degree
• No experience is required with a PHD

• Coordinates multiple aspects of research projects and carries out laboratory experiments utilizing various laboratory techniques, and determines whether additional or other tools or methods are required.
• Provides input regarding research protocols and experiments, sets up protocols, and assists in developing new laboratory techniques as needed.
• Identifies experimental data pertinent to the analysis problem. Processes, organizes, and summarizes data, reporting these experimental results as required. Monitors quality and integrity of recorded information and data.
• May draft sections of research manuscripts.
• Provides basic lab operation support, including equipment maintenance and purchasing. Monitors inventory levels and orders lab supplies as needed. Calibrates instruments and equipment. Troubleshoots instrument performance and equipment issues.
• Instruct other staff in basic laboratory techniques and procedures.
• Maintains regular and predictable attendance.
• Performs other related duties as assigned to meet the goals of the department and institution.