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

  • View Details

    Meaghan Granger, MD

    Associate Member, St. Jude Faculty

    Director, Oncology Clinical Medicine

    Meaghan Granger, MD

    Associate Member, St. Jude Faculty

    Director, Oncology Clinical Medicine

    Research Interests

    • Treatment of high-risk neuroblastoma in newly diagnosed and relapsed patients  
    • Pediatric retinoblastoma

    Contact Information

    Meaghan Granger, MD

    Department of Oncology

    MS 260

    St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

    262 Danny Thomas Place

    Memphis, TN 38105

  • View Details

    Rebecca Gardner, MD

    Associate Member, St. Jude Faculty

    Director, Oncology Cellular Therapy

    Medical Director, Children's GMP, LLC Cellular Therapy Program

    Rebecca Gardner, MD

    Associate Member, St. Jude Faculty

    Director, Oncology Cellular Therapy

    Medical Director, Children's GMP, LLC Cellular Therapy Program

    Research Interests

    • Development of cellular immunotherapy trials for pediatric cancer

    Contact Information

    Rebecca Gardner, MD

    Oncology

    MS 260

    St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

    262 Danny Thomas Place

    Memphis, TN 38105

  • View Details

    Kari Bjornard, MD, MPH

    Assistant Member, St. Jude Faculty

    Director, Fertility Program

    Kari Bjornard, MD, MPH

    Assistant Member, St. Jude Faculty

    Director, Fertility Program

    Research Interests

    • Gonadotoxic risk of childhood cancer therapies
    • Fertility preservation in childhood cancer patients
    • Reproductive late effects of childhood cancer survivors
    • Pediatric solid tumors

    Contact Information

    Kari Bjornard, MD, MPH

    Oncology

    MS 260, Room C6071

    St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

    262 Danny Thomas Place

    Memphis, TN 38105-3678


In the news

Clinical

What’s the right way to talk about prognosis?

Heather Johnson

Researchers at St. Jude are investigating how to approach difficult conversations about prognosis with patients and their families.

Apply now to open faculty positions!

Divisions

Initiatives and Collaborations

  • Comprehensive Cancer Center

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

Find out more

St. Jude On

Childhood cancer genetics: A legacy of groundbreaking work drives St. Jude forward

Alex Generous, PhD

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital has a rich history of research on genetics stemming from the Pediatric Cancer Genome Project and reverberating through laboratories today.

St. Jude On

Genetic predispositions can drive cancer but are not destiny for patients

Alex Generous, PhD

Scientists at St. Jude are leading the way on understanding cancer predisposition and the way that inherited genetics can inform patient care.

St. Jude On

Genetics: The myth of the monolith: How molecular groups can improve cancer care

Erin Podolak, MA

St. Jude scientists are fueling progress by studying the molecular groups of different cancers.

Selected Publications

Fellowships

Operations team

Mary Griffin, MSHS, CCRP, Director of Operations

Shemika Jones, MBA. CRA, Manager, Grant Operations

Natalie Smith, MS, Manager, Administrative Operations

Karl Schwab, Program Manager, Finance Operations

 


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 August 26, 2025
Pediatric Cancer Predisposition Clinical Fellow
  • Memphis, TN
  • Oncology
  • Clinical Fellows
The St. Jude Fellowship in Pediatric Cancer Predisposition offers training in germline precision medicine, which holds great promise to optimize the clinical care of children with cancer. As such, it is critical that pediatric hematology/oncology practitioners understand and learn how to incorporate recent exciting yet complex discoveries surrounding germline genomics into the daily management of their patients.As a fellow, you will:Enhance your clinical expertise in the diagnosis and evaluation of infants, children, adolescents, and young adults with hereditary cancer predisposition syndromes.Develop a multidisciplinary approach to the management of individuals affected by hereditary cancer predisposition.Apply knowledge obtained from tumor and germline genomic testing to understand mechanisms underlying cancer risk, tumor formation, and impacts on cancer treatment for patients with hereditary predisposition to cancer.This one-year program provides fellows with advanced training in cancer genetics as well as ample research opportunities focused on hereditary predisposition to cancer.Fellows receive a professional development allowance, research allowance, a personal computer for use during the fellowship, tuition assistance, dependent care assistance, moving allowance, an employer-contributed retirement savings plan, an onsite health and fitness facility, flexible health and dependent care savings accounts, medical, dental and vision insurance (cost shared), and disability, long term disability, and group life insurance. Memphis offers a relaxed, affordable lifestyle with excellent cultural and recreational amenities.EligibilityCandidates should be American Board of Pediatrics eligible for pediatric hematology-oncology or should have received equivalent training as judged by the program directors.International applicants must be ECFMG certified and H1B eligible.To Apply:Applicants may apply at any time. Our interview season is flexible, but typically occurs in the fall for a July 1st start. Required Documents:Curriculum Vitae (CV),Personal statementThree (3) letters of recommendationAbout St. JudeSt. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is located in Memphis, Tennessee and is one of the world’s premier research and treatment centers for pediatric catastrophic illness. The hospital has a primary emphasis in treating youth with cancer, sickle cell disease, other hematologic conditions, infectious diseases, and pediatric neurological diseases. We have an international patient population, which allows fellows to enhance their skills in working with diverse populations. St. Jude is consistently ranked by the U.S. News & World Report as a top pediatric cancer hospital, with a strong commitment to patient-family centered care. St. Jude is the first and only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center devoted solely to children. St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is consistently ranked on Glassdoor’s “Best Places to Work” list.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 August 26, 2025
Neuro-Oncology Clinical Fellow
  • Memphis, TN
  • Oncology
  • Clinical Fellows
As a fellow in our Neuro-Oncology program, you’ll deepen your understanding of the biology and etiology of pediatric brain tumors while gaining clinical experience within one of North America’s largest brain tumor centers. This program offers a blend of clinical training and exposure to innovative therapeutic approaches being developed at St. Jude, designed to prepare you for leadership in neuro-oncology.As a fellow, you will:Manage diverse clinical cases: Gain experience caring for a broad spectrum of patients in a high-volume clinical setting.               Collaborate across specialties: Integrate expertise from pediatric neurology, neurosurgery, neuropathology, neuroradiology, oncology, and radiation oncology to provide comprehensive care for children with primary brain tumors and therapy-related neurological complications.Engage with cutting-edge therapies: Work alongside internationally recognized laboratories in clinical pharmacology and molecular biology to explore innovative treatments.           Translate research to patient care: Advance research that bridges laboratory discoveries and clinical protocols, directly impacting our patient care.This one-year clinical fellowship provides a platform to expand your clinical knowledge and skills and be involved in protocol development and clinical trials from bench to bedside under the mentorship of internationally renowned clinical investigators.Fellows receive a professional development allowance, research allowance, a personal computer for use during the fellowship, tuition assistance, dependent care assistance, moving allowance, an employer-contributed retirement savings plan, an onsite health and fitness facility, flexible health and dependent care savings accounts, medical, dental and vision insurance (cost shared), and disability, long term disability, and group life insurance. Memphis offers a relaxed, affordable lifestyle with excellent cultural and recreational amenities.Eligibility:Eligible applicants will have completed a pediatric hematology/oncology or a pediatric neurology fellowship. The Neuro-Oncology fellowship program accepts international applicants who have obtained their ECFMG certification and H1B eligible.Apply:Applicants may apply at any time. Our interview season is flexible, but typically occurs in the fall for a July 1st start. Required Documents:Curriculum Vitae (CV),Personal statementThree (3) letters of recommendationSt. 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 August 26, 2025
Solid Tumor Clinical Fellow
  • Memphis, TN
  • Oncology
  • Clinical Fellows
Our clinic sees approximately 200 new solid tumor patients per year. The outpatient clinic has dedicated nurses and nurse practitioners. The inpatient unit is shared with neuro-oncology and is well staffed with hematology oncology fellows, nurse practitioners and residents. Solid tumor fellows have the option to do a limited number of inpatient weeks and act as a “junior attending” if they wish to do so during their one-year training.We emphasize interdisciplinary care with multiple specialties including radiation oncology, surgery, orthopedic oncology, interventional radiology, diagnostic imaging, pathology and clinical genomics.We offer one of the few comprehensive pediatric Solid Tumor fellowship programs in the country. As a clinical fellow in our Solid Tumor fellowship program, you will receive state-of-the-art training in the diagnosis and treatment of common and uncommon solid tumors. Our fellows will gain expertise in cutting-edge therapies and will rotate in several services, including pathology, diagnostic imaging and clinical genomics. You will be part of a select cohort of clinical fellows across numerous pediatric sub-specialties, including:Hematology/OncologyNeuro-OncologyPharmaceuticalPsychosocialInfectious DiseasesFellows receive a professional development allowance, research allowance, a personal computer for use during the fellowship, tuition assistance, dependent care assistance, moving allowance, an employer-contributed retirement savings plan, an onsite health and fitness facility, flexible health and dependent care savings accounts, medical, dental and vision insurance (cost shared), and disability, long term disability, and group life insurance. Memphis offers a relaxed, affordable lifestyle with excellent cultural and recreational amenities.Eligibility:Eligible applicants will have completed a pediatric hematology/oncology fellowship. International applicants must be ECFMG certified.To Apply:Applicants may apply at any time. Our interview season is flexible, but typically occurs in the fall for a July 1st start. Required Documents:Curriculum Vitae (CV),Personal statementThree (3) letters of recommendationAbout St. JudeSt. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is located in Memphis, Tennessee and is one of the world’s premier research and treatment centers for pediatric catastrophic illness. The hospital has a primary emphasis in treating youth with cancer, sickle cell disease, other hematologic conditions, infectious diseases, and pediatric neurological diseases. We have an international patient population, which allows fellows to enhance their skills in working with diverse populations. St. Jude is consistently ranked by the U.S. News & World Report as a top pediatric cancer hospital, with a strong commitment to patient-family centered care. St. Jude is the first and only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center devoted solely to children. St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is consistently ranked on Glassdoor’s “Best Places to Work” list.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 August 07, 2025
Manager - Lab Operations (Dr. Gutierrez Lab - Oncology)
  • Memphis, TN
  • Oncology
  • Laboratory Sciences & Support
Join our Team!We have an exciting opportunity for a Lab Operations Manager in the Alejandro Gutierrez Lab within the  Oncology Department at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, TN. The Gutierrez Lab is at the forefront of research into the molecular mechanisms of treatment resistance in cancer, aiming to develop breakthrough therapeutic strategies for patients with the fewest options. If you are passionate about supporting cutting-edge discovery and enjoy a blend of scientific inquiry and organizational excellence, we invite you to join our collaborative team.The successful candidate will serve as both an operational anchor and scientific contributor, managing key aspects such as lab equipment maintenance, ordering supplies, developing laboratory protocols, and coordinating budget activities. The role includes hands-on support for experimental design, execution, and data analysis, as well as training new lab members and assisting in the preparation of manuscripts and grants. Candidates with experience in molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics, or related fields—and a strong record of organizational and interpersonal skills—will thrive. Join us to make a tangible difference in the fight against treatment-resistant cancers and to help our next generation of scientists succeed. St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital offers a remarkable opportunity to perform cutting-edge research with outstanding institutional support and exceptional shared core facilities in an environment of open collaboration, educational advancement and training opportunities. St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital consistently earns a Glassdoor Employee Choice Award and is named to its "Best Place to Work" list. We are located in the heart of Memphis, Tennessee, a vibrant and friendly city at the historic American crossroads of music, trade, food, and culture. Mild winters and beautiful green outdoor spaces are part of the reasons why Forbes recently named Memphis the 4th happiest city in which to work. Cost of living and high quality of life are other attractions; Money magazine listed Memphis as one of the least expensive cities in which to raise a child. St. Jude facilities and salaries are highly competitive. Job Responsibilities:Responsible for overall operations of an individual lab (e.g., equipment, supplies, service contracts as applicable, safety/regulatory compliance).Work with PI to develop operational priorities, perform experiments, and train and/or supervise staff.Develop and maintain SOPs.Monitor budget activities and participate in the annual budget process.Assist with maintenance and repair of equipment and space design/ construction.Perform other duties as assigned to meet the goals and objectives of the department and the institution.Maintain regular and predictable attendance.Minimum Education and/or Training:Bachelor’s degree in relevant scientific area is required.Minimum Experience:8+ years of research experience is required.6+ years of research experience is required with a Master’s degree.3+ years of research experience is required with a PHD.Prior experience in relevant lab techniques preferred.Experience in lab and scientific project coordination, maintenance, and other research support activities preferred.Demonstrated understanding of the field and related trends.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 Manager - Lab Operations (Dr. Gutierrez Lab - Oncology).Explore our exceptional benefits!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