The Moreno lab investigates the emergence and evolution of bacterial pathogens. Our major research interests include elucidating the molecular strategies that bacterial pathogens develop for host colonization, virulence regulation and dispersal from the host. 

Our research program focuses on pathogenic members of the family Vibrionaceae with a strong emphasis on the intestinal pathogen Vibrio cholerae and the climate-sensitive pathogen Vibrio vulnificus, source of fulminant septicemia. Our goal is to gain the knowledge to a) effectively forecast the traits of emergent virulent strains, b) predict the sources of outbreaks, and c) identify potential drug targets for prophylactic or therapeutic purposes to prevent colonization or limit the spread of these infectious agents. The project seeks to map how microbial toxins and protein complexes exist in their native cellular environments a central challenge in understanding the molecular logic of these pathogenic bacteria. By combining cutting-edge molecular microbiology, proteomics and structural biology, the postdoctoral fellow will reveal new principles of macromolecular organization that underpin free living and pathogenic Vibrio species. This work will advance both fundamental knowledge and translational discovery.

Position Responsibilities:

We are looking for an exceptional Postdoctoral Research Associate to help us lead studies aimed at understanding the molecular and ecological drivers of pathogen emergence. The postdoctoral fellow will lead research projects at the interface between molecular microbiology, host-pathogen interactions and structural biology. They will design and execute experiments, analyze large-scale proteomic data, and interpret results. The individual is expected to lead projects that gravitate at the interface of several scientific disciplines.

Applicants should have a strong publication record, exceptional communication and organizational skills, willingness to work in a team atmosphere, willingness to train junior scientists, and should have excellent multitasking abilities. Applicants are expected to be independent thinkers and contribute to the development of novel projects and proposals.

The position offers extensive collaboration with microbiologists, structural biologists, computational modelers, and chemical biologists both within the lab, across the institution and with external collaborators that will provide a strong foundation for independent scientific development.

Minimum Education and/or Training:

Ph.D. in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Structural Biology, or a related discipline. Candidates should have a strong foundation in molecular biology, mass spectrometry-based proteomics, or chemical probe development. Prior experience with protein complex analysis, crosslinking chemistry, or integrative modeling is advantageous but not required. A demonstrated record of scientific productivity, critical thinking, and collaborative research is essential.

Special Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities:

Required Skills and Knowledge

• Strong background in molecular biology, microbiology or structural biology.

• Extensive experience with bacteriology, advanced molecular microbiology techniques

• Demonstrated ability to design and execute experiments independently and to critically analyze data.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to contribute to manuscripts, presentations, and collaborative discussions.

• Commitment to scientific rigor, integrity, and teamwork in a multidisciplinary environment.

Preferred Skills and Knowledge

• Experience in mass spectrometry–based proteomics, crosslinking chemistry, or structural methods such as cryo-EM or integrative modeling.

• Familiarity with computational tools for protein structure analysis, molecular modeling, or large-scale data interpretation.

• Prior exposure to cell biology or in situ biochemical methods.

• Ability to mentor junior researchers and contribute to collaborative, multi-lab projects.

• Enthusiasm for learning new experimental and computational approaches to explore macromolecular assemblies in their native context.

About the lab and St. Jude:

The Moreno lab provides an intellectually stimulating and inclusive environment for trainees. Our research program aligns with the global strategy “One Health” and lies at the interface between molecular microbiology, host-pathogen interactions, and microbial ecology, drawing from modern computational methods and evolutionary theory.

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is a world-class research institution dedicated to pediatric cancer and other catastrophic diseases of childhood. The first and only National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center devoted solely to children. Our 300-faculty work across the spectrum of basic, translational, clinical, and population science in a highly collaborative multidisciplinary environment that includes a Nobel laureate and members of the National Academy of Science and the National Academy of Medicine. St. Jude is ranked on Fortune Magazine’s “Best Workplaces in Health Care & Biopharma” and Glassdoor’s “Best Places to Work,” and is located in the heart of Memphis, Tennessee, a vibrant and friendly city at the historic American crossroads of music, trade, food and culture.

We are in pursuit of the brightest minds in biomedical sciences, individuals poised to contribute to our research progress. Other than access to top-quality scientists and mentors, as a postdoctoral trainee at St. Jude, you will have:

• A Blend of Academic Freedom and Industrial Efficiency: Access to shared resources and facilities led by expert scientists, coupled with cutting-edge technology, accelerates research productivity.

• Customized Professional and Career Growth: Experience specifically designed programs to enhance professional growth and career readiness empowering postdocs for success beyond their training. This includes access to grant writing workshops, individual development plans, teaching and mentoring opportunities, non-research career advancement programs, professional development allowance, and so much more.

• Competitive Compensation: Embark on your journey with a competitive salary starting at $72,500 a year, comprehensive benefits and generous relocation assistance, reflecting our commitment to recognize and invest in talent.

• A Sense of Community: St. Jude fosters a vibrant postdoc community that supports a well-balanced life. A dynamic environment promotes connections and camaraderie among postdocs from all backgrounds.

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