Research Associate in Biology

Virginia AG; Charlottesville, Northern (VA, KY); Hybrid; USD 60,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

The Sonoda Lab at the University of Virginia invites applications for a full-time Postdoctoral Research Associate to advance studies in visual system function using genetics, electrophysiology, imaging, and behavior. Work with Dr.

Sonoda to develop projects, analyze data, and contribute to manuscripts and fellowship proposals. Ideal candidates will hold a PhD in biology, neuroscience, or related fields, display strong communication skills, and thrive in independent and collaborative settings

Qualifications

• A PhD in Biology, Psychology, Neuroscience, Biomedical Sciences, or a related field by the start date.
• Strong interest in cellular and systems neuroscience, sensory processing, behavior, or related areas.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills evidenced by publications or conferences.

Responsibilities

• Develop projects related to visual circuit function and plasticity.
• Analyze and interpret data, prepare manuscripts and fellowship applications.
• Present findings at conferences and mentor students or junior lab members.

Skills

Cellular neuroscience

Systems neuroscience

Data interpretation

Mentoring

Independent work

Education

PhD in Biology/Neuroscience/related field

Tools

Electrophysiology

Calcium imaging

Neural data analysis

Genetic approaches

Job description

The Sonoda Lab in the Department of Biology at the University of Virginia’s College and Graduate School of Arts & Sciences is seeking applications for a full-time Postdoctoral Research Associate. Our lab uses genetic, electrophysiological, imaging, and behavioral approaches to understand how specific cell types and circuits in the visual system mediate perception and behavior.

The postdoctoral associate will have the opportunity to develop projects related to visual circuit function and plasticity. The selected candidate will work directly with Dr. Sonoda to advance ongoing research initiatives, develop new experimental approaches, analyze and interpret data, prepare manuscripts and fellowship applications, present findings at conferences, and mentor students or junior lab members.

Required Qualifications:

• A PhD in Biology, Psychology, Neuroscience, Biomedical Sciences, or a related field by the start date.
• Strong interest in cellular and systems neuroscience, sensory processing, behavior, or related areas.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Excellent written and oral communication skills, as evidenced by publications, conferences, or other forms of scientific communication.
• Demonstrated conceptual expertise in neuronal cell type identity and function, genetic approaches for manipulating specific neuronal types and behavior.
• Demonstrated expertise in measuring functional responses of neurons like electrophysiology, calcium imaging, etc.
• Strong ability in experimental design, data analysis, and data management.
• Ability to develop and learn new technical skills and approaches.
• Ability to work independently and as a team member and mentor junior lab members

Application Deadline:

Review of applications will begin October 17, 2026 and remain open until filled. The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment.

The anticipated salary is $60,000 - $65,000, commensurate with experience.

This is a one-year appointment; however, the appointment may be renewed for additional one-year increments, contingent upon available funding and satisfactory performance.

For questions about the position, please contact Takuma Sonoda, Assistant Professor, at [e-mail].

For questions about the application process, please contact Richard Haverstrom, Academic Recruiter, at [e-mail].

For information on the benefits available to postdoctoral associates at UVA, visit postdoc.virginia.edu and hr.virginia.edu/benefits.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment .