Computational Research Scientist in Yang Lab

The Yang laboratory at the Center of Excellence for Structural Cell Biology at St Jude Children’s Research Hospital invites applications for a Scientist position to contribute to the development of cryogenic correlative light and electron microscopy (cryo-CLEM). Cryo-CLEM leverages fluorescent signals to identify regions of interest and integrates cryo-electron microscopy/tomography to obtain high-resolution structural information from those same locations in their native, hydrated state. Despite significant progress in the field, current cryo-CLEM workflows remain labor-intensive and often suffer from low throughput and limited precision.

Our group specializes in in situ cryo-ET and in developing tools and workflows for efficient, accurate 2D/3D multimodal cryo-CLEM (Yang et al. J Struct Biol. 2021, Yang et al. Nat Methods 2023, Yang et al. Nat Protoc. 2026). We seek a highly motivated individual interested in developing innovative computational and imaging solutions to enhance the accuracy, robustness, and efficiency of 2D/3D correlative workflows.

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. Performs a variety of laboratory techniques independently and presents results.

The successful candidate will have:

• Advanced Degree (Preferably Ph.D.) in engineering, computational science, or related discipline
• Expertise in machine learning and computer vision, and proficiency in program languages in Python, R, JavaScript, Git, Linux, MATLAB
• Prior experience with image analysis and handling and software/tool development for workflow optimization is a plus
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to design, execute and interpret computational and or imaging experiments
• Motivation to learn new techniques and adapt to evolving technological needs
• Ability of thrive in a multidisciplinary, collaborative environment with a respectful and team-oriented approach
• High level of self-motivation, organization, and commitment to achieving project goals
• Excellent oral and written communication skills

Job Responsibilities:

• Lead computationally focused scientific research projects with moderate supervision from their PI.

• Provide inputs regarding analytical approaches, set up analyses, and can develop new computational research methods with input from PI.

• Identify, process, organize, summarize, review, and report relevant data.

• Draft a manuscript and work through the submission and review process with input from the PI, as directed.

• Instruct and provide guidance to other staff in basic computational research techniques and procedures.

• (In the case of recent Ph.D. graduates, this position can be considered equivalent to a mentored postdoctoral position.)

• Perform other duties as assigned to meet the goals and objectives of the department and institution.

• Maintains regular and predictable attendance.

Minimum Education and/or Training:

• Bachelor's degree in Bioinformatics, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Computer Science, or related field required.

• Master's degree or PhD preferred.

Minimum Experience:

• Minimum Requirement: Bachelor's degree and 6+ years of relevant experience.

• Experience Exception: Master's degree and 4+ years of relevant experience (OR) PhD with no experience.

• Rough criteria for this position based on publication output: 1-2 first author papers IF >5 (or equivalent contribution to other research outputs).

• Prior experience in computational research techniques preferred.

• Experience in project coordination, maintenance, and other research support activities preferred.

Our group is strongly committed to scientific rigor, mentorship, and supporting the professional development of team members at various stages of career advancement. St. Jude offers world-class high-resolution multimodal imaging and structural cell biology infrastructure. The successful candidate will have access to dedicated high performance computing (HPC) system, multiple Krios TEMs, advanced cryo-FIB-SEM systems including Hydra-bio, Arctics, and Aquilos II with integrated fluorescence , Zeiss Air-scan cryo-CLEM system, and plunge freezing systems including Vitrobot Mark IV, EMGP-2, and high pressure freezing systems. The lab is part of the Center of Excellence for Structural Cell Biology, providing an exceptional environment for interdisciplinary research in imaging, computation, and structural biology.

Compensation

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. It is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the salary range and compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. A reasonable estimate of the current salary range is $86,320 - $154,960 per year for the role of Computational Research Scientist in Yang Lab.

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