Research Associate - Jiang Lab

The Rector & Visitors of the University of Virginia; Charlottesville (VA); On-site; USD 58,000 - 68,000; Full time

Job summary

The Rector & Visitors of the University of Virginia in Charlottesville invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in the Lulu Jiang Lab to advance our understanding of neurodegenerative diseases using cutting-edge disease models and molecular approaches.

Candidates will work on RNA modifications, neuron-glia interactions, iPSC-derived brain organoids, and prion-like propagation in AD, with opportunities to publish, present at conferences, and contribute to translational

Qualifications

• PhD in neuroscience or related field.
• Experience in lab research and data analysis.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.

Responsibilities

• Conducting experiments and data analysis related to ongoing research projects.
• Contributing to the development and implementation of research protocols.
• Collaborating with fellow researchers and scientists within and outside the lab.
• Presenting research findings at conferences and publishing in scientific journals.
• Assisting in the training and mentorship of junior lab members.

Education

Doctoral degree

Job description

Are you passionate about unraveling the mysteries of the human brain? Do you havea strong desireto contribute to groundbreaking discoveries in the field of neurodegenerative diseases? Look no further! The Lulu Jiang Lab at the University of Virginia (UVA) is seeking a talented individual to join our dynamic research team as a Postdoctoral Research Associate.

The Lulu Jiang Lab is dedicated to advancing our understanding of the intricate workings of the brain. At our lab, we have a strong emphasis on comprehending the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), and other related dementia disorders. Our primary objective is to deepen our understanding of these disease conditions. To achieve this, we employ cutting-edge technologies in disease modeling, allowing us to recreate and study the pathological processes in a controlled environment. By utilizing these advanced techniques, we gain insights into the intricate molecular mechanisms that underlie the progression of these diseases. Moreover, our lab is dedicated to the development of innovative therapeutic strategies. We strive to translate our research findings into practical applications that could potentially lead to the discovery of novel treatments. By integrating our knowledge of disease mechanisms with targeted therapeutic approaches, we aim to make significant contributions to the field of neurodegenerative disease research. Overall, our lab is committed to advancing the understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases through the utilization of state-of-the-art technologies and the exploration of molecular mechanisms.

Our research focuses on several key areas that drive our scientific interests and contribute to the understanding and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.

These areas include:

• Investigation of RNA modifications and epitranscriptomic mechanisms in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and related dementias. By studying how RNA modifications impact disease progression, we aim to uncover novel therapeutic targets and diagnostic markers.
• Exploration of neuron-glia interactions and neuroimmunological mechanisms underlying the progression of AD and Parkinson’s disease (PD). Understanding the complex interplay between neurons and glial cells will provide crucial insights into the underlying mechanisms and potential avenues for therapeutic intervention.
• Utilization of iPSC-induced 3D human brain organoid models to study neurodegenerative diseases and enable precision medicine approaches. These advanced models allow us to recapitulate the complexity of the human brain, facilitating the identification of disease mechanisms and the development of personalized treatment strategies.
• Elucidation of the molecular mechanisms driving prion-like propagation in the Braak stages of AD. Investigating the spread of pathological proteins in the brain will contribute to our understanding of disease progression and may lead to the development of interventions that disrupt this process.
• Development of innovative genetic and small molecule therapeutics for neurodegenerative diseases. Our research aims to identify and optimize potential therapeutic targets, including genetic approaches and small molecules, with the goal of ultimately translating these findings into effective treatments for patients.

These research directions represent our current focus and ongoing projects, which collectively contribute to the advancement of knowledge and the development of new strategies for the management and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.

With state-of-the-art facilities and a collaborative environment, we strive to foster creativity, innovation, and scientific excellence.

Responsibilities

• Conducting experiments and data analysis related to ongoing research projects.
• Contributing to the development and implementation of research protocols.
• Collaborating with fellow researchers and scientists within and outside the lab.
• Presenting research findings at conferences and publishing in scientific journals.
• Assistingin the training and mentorship of junior lab members.

Minimum Qualifications

• Education: Doctoral degree

Physical Demands

This is primarily a sedentary job involving extensive use of desktop computers. The job does occasionally require traveling some distance to attend meetings, and programs.

Salary Range

Salary will be commensurate with education and experience.

Position Type & Work Location

• This is an exempt-level, benefited position. Learn more about UVA benefits
• This is a restricted position, which is dependent on funding and is contingent upon funding availability.
• This position is based in Charlottesville, VA, and must be performed fully on-site.

About UVA and the Community

To learn more about UVA and in the Charlottesville area, visit UVA Life and Embark CVA

Application Timeline

Application review will begin after August 15, 2026.

Additional Requirements

• Background checks and pre-employment health screenings will be conducted on all new hires prior to employment.

Contact

• For more information about our department and our lab, please visit https://med.virginia.edu/neuroscience/ or contact Lulu Jiang at [e-mail].
• For questions about the application process, please contact Jon Freeman, [e-mail].

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.