Research Scientist

Who is Saint Louis University? Founded in 1818, Saint Louis University is one of the nation’s oldest and most prestigious Catholic universities. SLU, which also has a campus in Madrid, Spain, is recognized for world-class academics, life-changing research, compassionate health care, and a strong commitment to faith and service.

All About You

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Research Scientist in Structural Biology. The successful candidate will lead and drive structural biology projects, employing cutting-edge techniques and methodologies to determine the three-dimensional structures of DNMT protein and uncover the mysteries of mammalian DNA methylation in the context of chromatin. Collaborating closely with other lab members, we aim to unravel the complex crosstalk between different epigenetic mechanisms and their pivotal role in disease pathogenesis. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research and make a significant impact on the advancement of science and medicine.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead structural biology projects, including experimental design, data collection, and analysis, under the supervision of Dr. Xu.
• Utilize X-ray crystallography, cryo-EM, and other biophysical techniques to elucidate the structures of proteins, nucleic acids, and macromolecular complexes.
• Develop and optimize protocols and methodologies for protein expression, purification, crystallization, and cryo-EM studies.
• Collaborate closely with interdisciplinary teams to integrate structural data with biochemical, biophysical, and computational analyses.
• Mentor junior lab members under the supervision of Dr. Xu, providing guidance and support for their professional development.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in structural biology and actively contribute to the scientific community through publications.
• Contribute to grant writing and funding proposals.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Structural Biology, Biochemistry, Biophysics, or related field.
• Extensive experience in protein crystallography and cryo-EM, with a proven track record of solving complex structures.
• Proficiency in molecular biology techniques for protein expression, purification, and characterization.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex structural data.
• Excellent communication with the ability to effectively collaborate with colleagues from diverse scientific backgrounds.
• Strong record of peer-reviewed publications.
• Experience with structural modeling and computational analysis.

• Bioinformatics experience would be a plus.

About the school and the lab

Founded in 1818, Saint Louis University (SLU) stands as one of the nation’s oldest and most prestigious Catholic universities. Renowned for its rich history and academic excellence, SLU consistently ranks among the top research universities nationwide and is acknowledged by U.S. News as one of the top 100 universities in the country. SLU, which also has a campus in Madrid, Spain, is recognized for world-class academics, life-changing research, compassionate health care, and a strong commitment to faith and service.

Dr. Xu’s lab is located in the Edward A. Doisy Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at Saint Louis University School of Medicine. Our lab is dedicated to investigating the intricate interplay among DNA methylation, histone modification, and chromatin remodeling. By employing multidisciplinary approaches that incorporate structural and cell biological techniques, we aim to unravel the complex crosstalk between these epigenetic mechanisms and their pivotal role in disease pathogenesis. Our ultimate goal is to leverage our understanding of the mechanisms and regulations of DNA methylation on chromatin to pave the way for innovative therapeutic interventions in cancer treatment. In addition, my laboratory is actively interested in exploring chromatin-related protein complexes.

Function

Scientists

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

Saint Louis University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for the position applied for without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, military/veteran status, gender identity, or other non-merit factors. We welcome and encourage applications from minorities, women, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities (including disabled veterans). If accommodations are needed for completing the application and/or with the interviewing process, please contact Human Resources at 314-977-5847.