About the department

The vision of the Oncology Department is to transcend boundaries to lead discovery and its translation into transformative clinical investigations, education, and compassionate patient care that will provide cures for childhood cancer and ensure quality of life across the patient’s lifespan.

Our Oncology faculty are world leaders in identifying novel drugs and treatment modalities, defining the clinical significance of recently discovered genetic abnormalities of cancer cells, understanding mechanisms of cancer development and drug resistance, identifying children at risk for the development of cancer, and understanding and preventing late effects of therapy. We aim to share our unique clinical expertise with colleagues nationally through our many clinical trial consortia and worldwide through our partnership with St. Jude Global. The ultimate goal of our research is to ensure that every child with cancer receives curative therapy and that this therapy allows them the potential for a healthy, long-lasting life.

About the Chair

Dr. Julie R. Park is a pediatric hematologist-oncologist who is interested in developing and advancing new approaches to childhood cancer therapy. Dr. Park received her MD from the University of Vermont and completed residency training in pediatrics at the University of Washington. Dr. Park then completed a fellowship in pediatric hematology/oncology at the University of Washington and Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center. 

She has been funded as a Fellow for the Leukemia Society of America at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, and an investigator on NCI and NIH grants. As a Member of the St. Jude Faculty and Chair of the Oncology Department, Dr. Park is interested in discovering the molecular and immunologic vulnerabilities of solid tumor malignancies, such as neuroblastoma, and using this information to inform clinical trials centered on novel therapies for children with relapsed or refractory high-risk tumors. 


Department directors

Meaghan Granger

Meaghan Granger, MD
Associate Member
Director of Oncology Clinical Medicine


Rebecca Gardner

Rebecca Gardner, MD
Associate Member
Director of Cellular Therapy Integration

Apply now to open faculty positions!

Divisions

Initiatives and Collaborations

  • Young male patient in hospital room
    Comprehensive Cancer Center

    St. Jude is the first and only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center devoted solely to children.

Selected Publications


Fellowships

Operations team

Mary Griffin, Director of Operations

Tiffany Smith, Administrative Manager

Shemika Jones, Manager Finance & Grants


Strategic team

Alejandra Gonzalez Ruiz, MD, MIH, Senior Program Manager- Oncology Strategic Initiatives

Veronica Espinosa Medina, Program Coordinator, Oncology Strategic Initiatives

J.T. Webb, Program Coordinator, Communications

View current openings 

Posted January 28, 2025
Researcher - Dr. Charles Roberts Lab
  • Memphis, TN
  • Oncology
  • Laboratory Sciences & Support
Join Our Team!We are excited to announce an exciting opportunity for a Researcher Position in the laboratory of Dr. Charles Roberts in the Division of Molecular Oncology at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. This position is ideal for individuals passionate about cancer research, particularly in the field of cancer epigenetics. Dr. Roberts is a prominent leader in cancer epigenetics, focusing on the SWI/SNF (BAF) chromatin remodeling complexes. His groundbreaking research has revealed critical insights into how chromatin remodeling perturbations contribute to cancer, leading to potential investigational therapies for both pediatric and adult patients. Notably, mutations in genes encoding SWI/SNF subunits are implicated in over 20% of all cancers, making this research highly relevant and impactful.Research in the Roberts laboratory is designed to discover the mechanisms by which SWI/SNF complexes regulate chromatin, transcriptional control, and lineage specification and the mechanisms by which mutation of SWI/SNF subunits drives cancer formation. We also seek to identify specific vulnerabilities conferred by SWI/SNF mutation with the goal of identifying novel therapeutic opportunities.Dr. Roberts is a passionate mentor and is fully committed to training the next generation of scientists. In addition to being the Director of the NCI-designated St. Jude Comprehensive Cancer Center, Dr. Roberts leads a very successful, well-funded team of postdoctoral scientists, graduate students, researchers, scientists, and dedicated bioinformaticians. Job Responsibilities:Performs laboratory experiments as directed using specific and prescribed techniques/protocols.Follows basic protocols, implements experimental techniques prescribed by the supervisor, and provides basic troubleshooting where appropriate.Accurately records experimental procedures and data.May draft results/data for posters, presentations, or publicationsOperates lab equipment.Performs other related duties as assigned in order to meet the goals of the department and institution.Maintains regular and predictable attendance.Minimum Education:Bachelor’s degree in a relevant scientific discipline is required.GPA of 3.5 or higher is preferred.Minimum Experience:No prior experience is required.Experience in molecular biology, tissue culture, or murine models is preferred.What You Will GainWork independently on meaningful research projects.Develop essential scientific writing and presentation skills.Be part of a well-funded team committed to advancing cancer research.CommitmentCandidates should be prepared for a two-year commitment to this role.CompensationIn 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 $24.00 - $42.00 per hour for the role of Researcher - Dr. Charles Roberts Lab.Explore our exceptional benefits!Diversity, Equity and Inclusion St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital has a diverse, global patient population and workforce, built on the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion. Our founder Danny Thomas envisioned a hospital that would treat children of the world—regardless of race, religion or a family’s ability to pay. Learn more about our history and commitment.Today, we continue the mission to advance cures and means of prevention for pediatric catastrophic diseases through research and treatment. As we accelerate this progress globally, we believe our legacy of diversity, equity and inclusion is foundational to success. With the commitment of leaders at all levels of the organization, we strive to ensure the St. Jude culture, leadership approaches and talent processes are equitable and culturally responsive. View our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Report to learn about the hospital’s roots in diversity, equity and inclusion, where we are today and our aspirations for an even better future.St. Jude is an Equal Opportunity EmployerNo Search FirmsSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital does not accept unsolicited assistance from search firms for employment opportunities. Please do not call or email. All resumes submitted by search firms to any employee or other representative at St. Jude via email, the internet or in any form and/or method without a valid written search agreement in place and approved by HR will result in no fee being paid in the event the candidate is hired by St. Jude.
Posted January 23, 2025
Senior Administrative Specialist - Oncology
  • Memphis, TN
  • Oncology
  • Administrative Operations
Join Our Team!The Operations/Administrative team in the Oncology Department at St. Jude has a great opportunity for a Senior Administrative Specialist to work for a superb team supporting the department's dynamic divisions. In this pivotal role, you will provide comprehensive administrative assistance, including event and vendor coordination, report and document preparation, scheduling, faculty support, and communication management. We are looking for candidates with a strong administrative background and excellent organizational skills who are also eager to mentor junior team members. When you work at St. Jude, you’ll join a highly collaborative work culture that inspires you every day to be your best.  With opportunities for learning and growth, you can shape a career path that is right for you while also enjoying all the benefits and stability of working for a world-class institution. This includes work-life balance with generous paid time-off and on-campus conveniences that make life a little easier. Join us and you’ll quickly see why St. Jude is consistently ranked by our employees on Glassdoor as a “Best Place to Work.”       Ignite your administrative journey and apply today!Job Responsibilities:Provide day to day administrative support like responding to calls, managing/tracking office supplies, document formatting & editing, mails, tracking and maintaining vendor contracts, scheduling meetings etc., independently.Coordinate with external vendors to support event organization for own team/department.Manage standard communication with internal/ external members on routine matters.Create standard reports related to budget and variance, expenses etc., ensure documentation and data management while protecting confidentiality where needed.Support a faculty member or leader(s) with activities related to scheduling, communication, managing lab set up, grants etc. as appropriate within own scope of work.Support in recruitment process by developing & coordinating itineraries for departmental visitors or new recruits.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:High school diploma/GED required.Bachelor's degree preferred.Minimum Experience:Minimum Requirement: 4+ years experience in administration or related areas.Experience Exception: Bachelor's degree with no experience required.Some experience with activities involving planning, organizing and coordinating is important.Experience with tasks that involve managing routine or repetitive activities, high attention to detail and clear communication are critical.Demonstrated experience working with office technologies including Microsoft Office (Word/ Excel/ Power point etc.).CompensationIn 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 $22.00 - $38.50 per hour for the role of Senior Administrative Specialist - Oncology.Explore our exceptional benefits!Diversity, Equity and Inclusion St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital has a diverse, global patient population and workforce, built on the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion. Our founder Danny Thomas envisioned a hospital that would treat children of the world—regardless of race, religion or a family’s ability to pay. Learn more about our history and commitment.Today, we continue the mission to advance cures and means of prevention for pediatric catastrophic diseases through research and treatment. As we accelerate this progress globally, we believe our legacy of diversity, equity and inclusion is foundational to success. With the commitment of leaders at all levels of the organization, we strive to ensure the St. Jude culture, leadership approaches and talent processes are equitable and culturally responsive. View our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Report to learn about the hospital’s roots in diversity, equity and inclusion, where we are today and our aspirations for an even better future.St. Jude is an Equal Opportunity EmployerNo Search FirmsSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital does not accept unsolicited assistance from search firms for employment opportunities. Please do not call or email. All resumes submitted by search firms to any employee or other representative at St. Jude via email, the internet or in any form and/or method without a valid written search agreement in place and approved by HR will result in no fee being paid in the event the candidate is hired by St. Jude.
Posted January 21, 2025
Pediatric Neuro-Oncology Clinical MD Fellow
  • Memphis, TN
  • Oncology
  • Clinical Fellows
The neuro-oncology department sees more than 150 patients treated at St. Jude annually, we often consult on cases from other institutions, providing guidance or second opinions on diagnoses and treatment plans. The department also works collaboratively with the Department of Neurobiology to advance innovative therapeutic interventions. Clinical trials are developed regularly at St. Jude and in collaboration with other pediatric neuro-oncology programs, cooperative groups, and the Pediatric Brain Tumor Consortium. Job Overview12-month clinical fellowship in pediatric neuro-oncologyFellowship Experience:As a clinical fellow in the Neuro-Oncology program, you will receive exceptional training in one of the largest clinical brain tumor programs in North America. As a Neuro-Oncology fellow, you will work with internationally renowned clinical investigators to care for a high volume of diverse patients in an enhanced clinical setting. You will gain experience in:The etiology and biology of pediatric brain tumors and optimal clinical careInnovative therapeutic intervention studies and collaborative clinical trials in conjunction with internationally recognized laboratories in clinical pharmacology and molecular biologyIntegrating the specialties of pediatric neurology, neurosurgery, neuropathology, neuroradiology, oncology and radiation oncology into the care of children with complex primary brain tumors or with chemotherapy-induced neurologic complicationsProgressing research from the laboratory to the clinic through the development of protocols that directly benefit patientsThe fellowship is flexible to meet the needs and goals of each trainee.  A typical schedule includes up to four days a week in neuro-oncology clinic where you will see patients as their primary physician with attending supervision. You will have opportunities to work with other departments including radiation oncology, pathology, diagnostic imaging, neurosurgery, neurology and psychology with further experiences tailored to each individual fellow’s interests.Educational opportunities throughout the year include weekly Brain Tumor Conferences in which the fellow will be involved in outside consultations, Grand Rounds, Brain Tumor Research Team Meetings, and Neurobiology and Brain Tumor Program seminars. Neuro-oncology fellows are also encouraged to be involved in the education of hematology-oncology fellows, residents, and other trainees that rotate through neuro-oncology clinic.Education and Previous Training:Candidates must have successfully completed pediatric hematology-oncology fellowship or pediatric neurology residency program and should be board certified or eligible in their appropriate field. Furthermore, all candidates must be eligible to receive a valid permit or license from the Tennessee Medical Board.St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is a world-class research institution dedicated to pediatric cancer and other catastrophic diseases of childhood. It is the first and only National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center devoted solely to children. Our faculty works 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.Diversity, Equity and Inclusion St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital has a diverse, global patient population and workforce, built on the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion. Our founder Danny Thomas envisioned a hospital that would treat children of the world—regardless of race, religion or a family’s ability to pay. Learn more about our history and commitment.Today, we continue the mission to advance cures and means of prevention for pediatric catastrophic diseases through research and treatment. As we accelerate this progress globally, we believe our legacy of diversity, equity and inclusion is foundational to success. With the commitment of leaders at all levels of the organization, we strive to ensure the St. Jude culture, leadership approaches and talent processes are equitable and culturally responsive. View our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Report to learn about the hospital’s roots in diversity, equity and inclusion, where we are today and our aspirations for an even better future.St. Jude is an Equal Opportunity EmployerNo Search FirmsSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital does not accept unsolicited assistance from search firms for employment opportunities. Please do not call or email. All resumes submitted by search firms to any employee or other representative at St. Jude via email, the internet or in any form and/or method without a valid written search agreement in place and approved by HR will result in no fee being paid in the event the candidate is hired by St. Jude.
Posted January 20, 2025
Scientist- Obeng Lab
  • Memphis, TN
  • Oncology
  • Laboratory Sciences & Support
Join Our Team!The Obeng Lab is seeking a highly motivated, team-oriented, and creative Scientist interested in translational biomedical research to join our team. Successful applicants will have a strong publication record and possess the skills to diligently manage experiments and laboratory personnel. They will possess strong organizational and communication skills and respond well to a busy and dynamic lab environment. This position requires molecular biology, cell culture, flow cytometry, colony management, and next-generation sequencing expertise. The ideal candidate must be able to design and perform experiments with minimal supervision and be interested in learning and applying new techniques from the literature. A background in hematopoiesis research is a plus.The Obeng Laboratory is part of the Department of Oncology at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, TN. The focus of the Obeng Lab is improving our understanding of the pathogenesis of myeloid malignancies including myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). We are specifically interested in how acquired mutations in hematopoietic stem cells block mature blood cell differentiation and/or cause leukemic transformation. We are using patient samples, CRISPR-Cas9 gene edited cell lines and induced pluripotent stem cells, and novel xenograft and transgenic mammalian model systems to study the functional consequences of RNA splicing factor and epigenetic regulator mutations on hematopoietic stem cell function and to identify more effective targeted therapies for myeloid diseases.Job Responsibilities:Coordinates multiple aspects of research projects, 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 in order to meet the goals of the department and institution.Minimum Education and/or Training:Bachelor's degree in a relevant scientific area is required.Minimum Experience:Eight (8) years of relevant work experience is required.Six (6) years of relevant work experience is required with a Master's degree.Three (3) years of relevant work experience is required with a PhD.CompensationIn 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 Scientist- Obeng Lab.Explore our exceptional benefits!Diversity, Equity and Inclusion St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital has a diverse, global patient population and workforce, built on the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion. Our founder Danny Thomas envisioned a hospital that would treat children of the world—regardless of race, religion or a family’s ability to pay. Learn more about our history and commitment.Today, we continue the mission to advance cures and means of prevention for pediatric catastrophic diseases through research and treatment. As we accelerate this progress globally, we believe our legacy of diversity, equity and inclusion is foundational to success. With the commitment of leaders at all levels of the organization, we strive to ensure the St. Jude culture, leadership approaches and talent processes are equitable and culturally responsive. View our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Report to learn about the hospital’s roots in diversity, equity and inclusion, where we are today and our aspirations for an even better future.St. Jude is an Equal Opportunity EmployerNo Search FirmsSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital does not accept unsolicited assistance from search firms for employment opportunities. Please do not call or email. All resumes submitted by search firms to any employee or other representative at St. Jude via email, the internet or in any form and/or method without a valid written search agreement in place and approved by HR will result in no fee being paid in the event the candidate is hired by St. Jude.

Contact us

Department of Oncology
MS 260, Room C6056
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
262 Danny Thomas Place
Memphis, TN 38105-3678

Email: julie.park@stjude.org
Telephone: (901) 595-4329
Fax: (901) 521-1751

Preferred contact method: email