Research Assistant Professor

Virginia Tech; Blacksburg (VA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Virginia Tech is looking for a skilled researcher to join the VG-HI lab in Blacksburg, VA. The role demands a PhD in molecular biology, cancer biology, or related fields, alongside substantial experience in leading research projects. Responsibilities include conducting various assays, collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, and project management. The successful candidate should demonstrate excellent communication and organizational skills. The position is exempt from overtime, with compensation based on experience.

Qualifications

• Successful completion of a PhD in molecular biology, cancer biology, immunology, or related fields.
• Substantial experience independently organizing and conducting complex procedures and experiments.
• Demonstrated experience in leading research projects to completion as evidenced by multiple first-author publications.
• Clear communication skills as evidenced by presentation of data at national conferences and seminar presentations.
• Experience working with microorganisms and biosafety.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical and leadership support for the VG-HI lab.
• Conduct molecular and immunological assays, 2D and 3D cell culture, including primary cells.
• Perform basic and complex computational tasks for data analysis and interpretation.
• Work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams and serve as PI/Co-PI on projects.

Skills

Molecular biology

Cancer biology

Immunology

Leadership skills

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Education

PhD in molecular biology, cancer biology, immunology, or related fields

Job description

Job Description

This position is responsible for providing technical and leadership support for the Viral Genetics and Host Interactions (VG‑HI) lab in the College of Veterinary Medicine at Virginia Tech. The individual will report directly to Dr. James Weger‑Lucarelli. This position involves cutting‑edge research studying cancer biology and developing strategies to treat cancer. Duties will include molecular and immunological assays, 2D and 3D cell culture, including primary cells, and procedures with mice. Basic and more complex computational tasks will be required for data analysis and interpretation. Responsibilities also include data analysis, reporting, manuscript and grant preparation, project management and leadership/training tasks, compliance with all safety regulations, and assistance with SOP development. The individual is expected to work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams from academia, government, and industry, and serve as PI/Co‑PI on projects.

Required Qualifications

• Successful completion of a PhD in molecular biology, cancer biology, immunology, or related fields
• Substantial experience independently organizing and conducting complex procedures and experiments
• Demonstrated experience in leading research projects to completion as evidenced by multiple first-author publications
• Clear communication skills as evidenced by presentation of data at national conferences, seminar presentations, past teaching experience, and/or manuscript publication
• Experience working with microorganisms and biosafety
• Possess molecular and protein biology skills
• Should be enthusiastic and dedicated, have the ability and interest in learning new techniques; must be willing to follow verbal and written instructions; be observant, attentive to detail, organized, efficient, and work well with others

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated program management and supervisory experience of junior lab staff
• Success in proposal development and managing extramural funded programs

Administrative Information

• Pay Band: Faculty; Salary
• Overtime Status: Exempt: Not eligible for overtime
• Appointment Type: Restricted
• Salary Information: Salary; commensurate with experience
• Hours per week: 40+
• Review Date: October 1, 2025
• Additional Information: The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

EEO Statement

Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.