Lead Researcher Visa Sponsorship Jobs in Tennessee
Lead researcher roles in Tennessee are concentrated at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Oak Ridge National Laboratory near Knoxville, and life sciences employers across the Research Triangle corridor. These institutions and biotech firms regularly sponsor H-1B visa and employment-based green cards for research scientists with advanced degrees in STEM fields.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
Join a cutting-edge laboratory dedicated to translating next-generation genome editing strategies into transformative treatments for hemoglobinopathies and pediatric catastrophic diseases. As the Lead or Senior In Vivo Researcher, you will direct the in vivo aspects of our translational pipeline. You will be responsible for managing highly specialized humanized models, overseeing the precise delivery of genome editing therapeutics, and championing the highest ethical standards in animal welfare. This role requires technical mastery in stem cell biology and a deep commitment to the 3Rs (Replacement, Reduction, Refinement) of ethical research.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Advanced In Vivo Research, Cellular Analysis & Therapeutics
- Lead and execute complex in vivo studies utilizing specialized humanized and disease-relevant research models, including immunocompromised and hemoglobinopathy models, to evaluate therapeutic genome engineering outcomes.
- Perform precise isolation, phenotypic characterization, and preparation of human Hematopoietic Stem Cells (HSCs) and targeted cell populations utilizing Magnetic-Activated Cell Sorting (MACS) and multi-color flow cytometry.
- Execute the preparation, engraftment, and maintenance of advanced humanized research models to support translational studies.
- Administer advanced in vivo delivery approaches for experimental therapies using minimally invasive techniques that support both scientific rigor and welfare-focused practices.
- Conduct specialized procedures, including aseptic sample collection, precise dosing methodologies, and downstream molecular and flow cytometric analyses, as applicable to study design.
Animal Welfare & Ethical Leadership
- Champion research welfare by proactively refining protocols to minimize stress, support environmental enrichment, and implement appropriate humane endpoints.
- Collaborate with veterinary staff, Animal Resource Center (ARC) personnel, and research teams to ensure specialized research models receive high standards of care and oversight.
- Ensure all procedures comply with institutional policies, applicable regulatory requirements, the ILAR Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals, and the USDA Animal Welfare Act, while incorporating the principles of Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement (3Rs).
Laboratory Leadership & Operations
- Maintain meticulous and transparent documentation for all studies, including health monitoring, engraftment outcomes, flow cytometry data, and observational records.
- Guide and mentor early-career team members on standard procedures, welfare-focused handling techniques, MACS/flow cytometry operation, and specialized HSC protocols.
- Contribute to the development, optimization, and implementation of refined in vivo methodologies, minimally invasive treatment approaches, and downstream cellular assays.
- Support the planning and procurement of specialized supplies, reagents, and antibodies required for humanized models and complex in vivo studies.
- Maintain regular and predictable attendance to support continuity of critical ongoing studies and research activities.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant scientific area is required.
- Master’s degree or higher heavily preferred given the advanced scientific nature of HSC handling and genome engineering evaluations.
Lead Researcher Minimum Experience:
- 5+ years of research experience is required.
- 3+ years of experience is required with a Master’s degree.
- No prior experience required with a PhD.
Salary range: $60,320.00/yr. - $105,040.00/yr.
Senior Researcher Minimum Experience:
- Two (2) years of research experience is required.
- No prior experience is required with a Master’s degree.
- Working knowledge and understanding of underlying concepts and principles of experimental design.
- Experience with the most widely used techniques used in the home laboratory.
- Proven performance in earlier role/comparable role.
Salary range: $54,080.00/yr. - $94,640.00/yr.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Strong knowledge and experience in understanding and application of underlying principles related to techniques being performed.
- Experience in R&D methods and processes in lab setting, and execution of research projects for the laboratory preferred.
- Proven performance in earlier role/comparable role.
- Crucial In Vivo Expertise: Demonstrated proficiency working with humanized research models, highly immunocompromised strains (e.g., NBSGW), and/or specialized disease models (e.g., Townes).
- Crucial Analytical Expertise: Hands-on proficiency with multi-color flow cytometry and Magnetic-Activated Cell Sorting (MACS) for the isolation, characterization, and downstream analysis of hematopoietic and immune cell populations.
- Prior experience with human Hematopoietic Stem Cell (HSC) handling, preparation, and precise in vivo delivery/transplantation is highly preferred.
- Proven track record of supporting welfare-focused research practices, regulatory compliance, and protocol refinement to enhance care standards and minimize distress.
- Experience working with specialized software systems and databases for meticulous record and data maintenance (including flow cytometry analysis software).
- Proven performance and leadership in a comparable high-level research role.
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 $60,320 - $105,040 per year for the role of Lead or Senior In Vivo Researcher – Yen - Lab - Therapeutic Genome Engineering. Explore our exceptional benefits! We are committed to a human-centered hiring experience. Technology may support portions of our process, but recruiting decisions involve human review and engagement. Learn more about our approach to AI.
St. Jude is an Equal Opportunity Employer
No Search Firms
St. 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.
INTRODUCTION
Join a cutting-edge laboratory dedicated to translating next-generation genome editing strategies into transformative treatments for hemoglobinopathies and pediatric catastrophic diseases. As the Lead or Senior In Vivo Researcher, you will direct the in vivo aspects of our translational pipeline. You will be responsible for managing highly specialized humanized models, overseeing the precise delivery of genome editing therapeutics, and championing the highest ethical standards in animal welfare. This role requires technical mastery in stem cell biology and a deep commitment to the 3Rs (Replacement, Reduction, Refinement) of ethical research.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Advanced In Vivo Research, Cellular Analysis & Therapeutics
- Lead and execute complex in vivo studies utilizing specialized humanized and disease-relevant research models, including immunocompromised and hemoglobinopathy models, to evaluate therapeutic genome engineering outcomes.
- Perform precise isolation, phenotypic characterization, and preparation of human Hematopoietic Stem Cells (HSCs) and targeted cell populations utilizing Magnetic-Activated Cell Sorting (MACS) and multi-color flow cytometry.
- Execute the preparation, engraftment, and maintenance of advanced humanized research models to support translational studies.
- Administer advanced in vivo delivery approaches for experimental therapies using minimally invasive techniques that support both scientific rigor and welfare-focused practices.
- Conduct specialized procedures, including aseptic sample collection, precise dosing methodologies, and downstream molecular and flow cytometric analyses, as applicable to study design.
Animal Welfare & Ethical Leadership
- Champion research welfare by proactively refining protocols to minimize stress, support environmental enrichment, and implement appropriate humane endpoints.
- Collaborate with veterinary staff, Animal Resource Center (ARC) personnel, and research teams to ensure specialized research models receive high standards of care and oversight.
- Ensure all procedures comply with institutional policies, applicable regulatory requirements, the ILAR Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals, and the USDA Animal Welfare Act, while incorporating the principles of Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement (3Rs).
Laboratory Leadership & Operations
- Maintain meticulous and transparent documentation for all studies, including health monitoring, engraftment outcomes, flow cytometry data, and observational records.
- Guide and mentor early-career team members on standard procedures, welfare-focused handling techniques, MACS/flow cytometry operation, and specialized HSC protocols.
- Contribute to the development, optimization, and implementation of refined in vivo methodologies, minimally invasive treatment approaches, and downstream cellular assays.
- Support the planning and procurement of specialized supplies, reagents, and antibodies required for humanized models and complex in vivo studies.
- Maintain regular and predictable attendance to support continuity of critical ongoing studies and research activities.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant scientific area is required.
- Master’s degree or higher heavily preferred given the advanced scientific nature of HSC handling and genome engineering evaluations.
Lead Researcher Minimum Experience:
- 5+ years of research experience is required.
- 3+ years of experience is required with a Master’s degree.
- No prior experience required with a PhD.
Salary range: $60,320.00/yr. - $105,040.00/yr.
Senior Researcher Minimum Experience:
- Two (2) years of research experience is required.
- No prior experience is required with a Master’s degree.
- Working knowledge and understanding of underlying concepts and principles of experimental design.
- Experience with the most widely used techniques used in the home laboratory.
- Proven performance in earlier role/comparable role.
Salary range: $54,080.00/yr. - $94,640.00/yr.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Strong knowledge and experience in understanding and application of underlying principles related to techniques being performed.
- Experience in R&D methods and processes in lab setting, and execution of research projects for the laboratory preferred.
- Proven performance in earlier role/comparable role.
- Crucial In Vivo Expertise: Demonstrated proficiency working with humanized research models, highly immunocompromised strains (e.g., NBSGW), and/or specialized disease models (e.g., Townes).
- Crucial Analytical Expertise: Hands-on proficiency with multi-color flow cytometry and Magnetic-Activated Cell Sorting (MACS) for the isolation, characterization, and downstream analysis of hematopoietic and immune cell populations.
- Prior experience with human Hematopoietic Stem Cell (HSC) handling, preparation, and precise in vivo delivery/transplantation is highly preferred.
- Proven track record of supporting welfare-focused research practices, regulatory compliance, and protocol refinement to enhance care standards and minimize distress.
- Experience working with specialized software systems and databases for meticulous record and data maintenance (including flow cytometry analysis software).
- Proven performance and leadership in a comparable high-level research role.
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 $60,320 - $105,040 per year for the role of Lead or Senior In Vivo Researcher – Yen - Lab - Therapeutic Genome Engineering. Explore our exceptional benefits! We are committed to a human-centered hiring experience. Technology may support portions of our process, but recruiting decisions involve human review and engagement. Learn more about our approach to AI.
St. Jude is an Equal Opportunity Employer
No Search Firms
St. 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.
Lead Researcher Job Roles in Tennessee
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Search Lead Researcher Jobs in TennesseeLead Researcher Jobs in Tennessee: Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies and institutions sponsor visas for lead researchers in Tennessee?
Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis, and University of Tennessee Health Science Center are among the most active sponsors for lead researcher roles in Tennessee. Life sciences companies clustered around Nashville's growing biotech sector, including pharmaceutical manufacturers and contract research organizations, also file H-1B and PERM labor certifications for senior research positions regularly.
What visa types realistically apply to lead researcher jobs in Tennessee?
H-1B is the most common path, since lead researcher roles typically require a bachelor's degree or higher in a directly related scientific field, satisfying the specialty occupation requirement. F-1 students with STEM-designated degrees can bridge through OPT and STEM OPT while pursuing H-1B sponsorship. For long-term stays, employers often sponsor EB-2 green cards through PERM, and candidates with exceptional research records may qualify for EB-1A extraordinary ability or EB-2 National Interest Waivers, which allow self-petition.
How to find lead researcher visa sponsorship jobs in Tennessee?
Migrate Mate lists Tennessee employers with verified sponsorship history for research roles, letting you focus on organizations that have already filed H-1B or PERM certifications for lead researchers rather than guessing at willingness to sponsor. Filtering by Tennessee on Migrate Mate surfaces active postings from institutions like Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Nashville biotech firms, and Memphis medical research centers, all with sponsorship track records specific to scientific and research occupations.
Which Tennessee cities have the most lead researcher visa sponsorship jobs?
Nashville leads because of Vanderbilt University Medical Center, several pharmaceutical and biotech employers, and a growing health-tech sector. Oak Ridge and Knoxville are strong for physical and energy science research, anchored by Oak Ridge National Laboratory and the University of Tennessee. Memphis concentrates heavily in biomedical and clinical research, driven by St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Smaller but active research activity also exists in Murfreesboro and Johnson City through regional university systems.
Are there state-specific factors that affect lead researcher sponsorship in Tennessee?
Tennessee's research employment is heavily shaped by federal contracts at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, which operates under Department of Energy funding and has established immigration support infrastructure for international researchers. The state's expanding life sciences corridor around Nashville has attracted venture-backed biotech startups that may offer sponsorship but with less institutional HR support than national laboratories or academic medical centers. Candidates targeting smaller Tennessee employers should confirm that the organization has prior H-1B or PERM filing experience before advancing in the hiring process.
What is the prevailing wage for sponsored lead researcher jobs in Tennessee?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.