Postdoctoral Research Associate, Cai Lab, Department of Surgery

University of Virginia • Charlottesville, VA

2d • $63,480 - $65,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The Cai Lab in the Division of Surgical Sciences at UVA School of Medicine invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate. This position is ideal for a highly motivated early-career scientist eager to develop an independent research trajectory within a well-funded, collaborative program at the intersection of cardiovascular biology, muscle physiology, pulmonary pathophysiology, and surgical oncology.

We use diverse vitro and in vivo experimental platforms to investigate molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying disease processes in cardiac and skeletal muscle, lung, and tumor biology. The lab offers a rigorous yet supportive training environment with strong mentorship, active grant funding, and a track record of trainee career advancement.

Postdoctoral employment is temporary and is normally limited to an individual who has been awarded a Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate within the previous five years and who will be involved in full-time research or scholarship at the University. Employment as a Postdoctoral Research Associate is viewed as training and is preparatory for a full-time academic or research career, is supervised by a senior scholar, and allows the appointee to publish the results of his/her research or scholarship during the training period.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or M.D. (or equivalent) in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Physiology, Biomedical Sciences, Pharmacology, or a related discipline

Nice To Haves

• Hands-on experience in molecular and cellular biology techniques (Western blot, qRT-PCR, immunostaining, cell culture, etc.)
• Experience with small animal models, particularly studies of skeletal muscle, cardiac muscle, or pulmonary function and disease
• Familiarity with IACUC-compliant animal handling and experimental procedures
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, as evidenced by at least one first-author peer-reviewed publication

Responsibilities

• Design and execute experiments in molecular and cellular biology and small animal models of muscle or lung function and pathophysiology.
• Performing and optimizing in vivo murine studies assessing skeletal or cardiac muscle performance, lung mechanics, injury, and remodeling.
• Core techniques include cell culture, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, Western blotting, qRT-PCR, ELISA, and histological analysis.
• Contribute to data interpretation, manuscript preparation, and grant progress reports.
• Assist in maintaining mouse breeding colonies, genotyping, and record-keeping in compliance with IACUC regulations and UVA vivarium policies.
• Help coordinate reagent inventory and ensure proper upkeep of shared laboratory equipment.
• Assist in training and mentoring junior laboratory members, including undergraduate researchers, medical students, and graduate students, in experimental techniques, data analysis, and scientific communication under the PI's guidance.

Benefits

• benefited position
• UVA benefits

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree