"Staff Scientist - Pathology & Immunology"

Position Summary

The Persaud lab in the Department of Pathology & Immunology at WashU Medicine has an opening for a Staff Scientist. Established in 2025, the lab conducts preclinical (basic science and translational) studies into optimizing the safety and efficacy of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for hematologic diseases, with emphasis on definitive therapies for non-malignant disorders. Using both fully murine and humanized mouse models, the lab seeks to integrate minimally toxic, antibody-based transplant conditioning with novel stem cell mobilization regimens to optimize autologous gene therapies for sickle cell disease. Projects to understand how antibody-based conditioning regimens impact the biology of the transplant recipient compared to conventional conditioning regimens are also of great interest to the group. The successful candidate will work directly with the PI and other lab members to assist with laboratory maintenance and develop new and existing research projects in these exciting areas.

As the inaugural members of the Persaud lab, candidates will play an important role in shaping the culture and mission of the lab. Central to that mission is supporting the career development of researchers in all roles and career stages; as such, the lab endeavors to provide a supportive, convivial, people-first environment for all who join. Candidates will have potential opportunities to lead projects, mentor junior researchers, write and contribute to grants and manuscripts, present their findings at local and international meetings, and interact with collaborators in the WashU Department of Pathology & Immunology and the Division of Oncology in the Department of Medicine.

Designs research protocols. Assists in developing and conducting research projects, including experiment design, data analysis and documentation of experiment results.

Job Description

Primary Duties & Responsibilities:

• Designs and conducts research protocols, including developing procedures for collection, verification, statistical analysis, and management of data. Experiments would include cell culture, molecular biology (including gene editing), antibody production and engineering, flow cytometry, and mouse handling.
• Assists with grant preparation and reporting.
• Documents research topics and prepares and submits papers based on research work to publications and committees for publication or presentation to peers.
• Solves practical problems relating to difficulties with equipment or test subjects. Suggests technical or procedural improvements in testing methods.
• Conducts literature searches related to research project.
• Complies with established safety protocols.
• Performs other duties including assisting the PI with lab maintenance, maintaining equipment and keeping lab well-supplied and stocked.

Working Conditions:

• Works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards.
• Must be physically able to wear protective equipment and to provide standard care to research animals.

Required Qualifications

Education:

Master’s degree or combination of education and/or experience may substitute for minimum education.

Work Experience:

Laboratory Operations (3 Years)

Preferred Qualifications

Education:

Ph.D. - Doctor of Philosophy

Skills:

Blood Specimen Collection, Communication, CRISPR-Cas System, Data Analysis, Data Interpretations, Flow Cytometry, Genome Editing, Hematology, Immunology, Injection Techniques, Mouse Handling, Stem Cell Biology, Verbal Communications, Written Communication

Salary Range

$48,000.00 - $86,900.00 / Annually