Research Associate, The Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center

The Rector & Visitors of the University of Virginia; Charlottesville (VA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

The Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center at the University of Virginia is seeking a Research Associate to study calcium signaling and ion channels in systemic and pulmonary vasculature in the Sonkusare Laboratory.

The team employs calcium imaging, patch-clamp electrophysiology, and vascular physiology models to understand dysfunctions in cardiovascular disorders. You will contribute to multiple projects, prepare study reports, papers, and grant applications, and collaborate with

Qualifications

• PhD at hire time; ideal PhD in cardiovascular physiology.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Participate in multiple lab projects and write study reports for sponsors and grant applications.
• Attend and contribute to lab meetings and CVRC seminars.
• Collaborate with graduate students, technicians, fellows and collaborators.

Skills

Calcium imaging

Ion channels

Cardiovascular physiology

Written and oral communication

Education

Doctoral degree in cardiovascular physiology / related field

Job description

The Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center (CVRC) is currently seeking a Research Associate to investigate the calcium signaling mechanisms and ion channels in systemic and pulmonary vasculature within the Sonkusare Laboratory. The Sonkusare Laboratory employs state-of-the-art calcium imaging, superresolution imaging, patch-clamp electrophysiology, pressure myography, radiotelemetric blood pressure measurements, and cell-specific knockout mouse models. The overarching goal of the laboratory is to discover novel strategies for rescuing vascular dysfunction in cardiovascular disorders. For further details on research in the Sonkusare lab, please visit https://www.cvrc.virginia.edu/Sonkusare/index.html.

The incumbent will participate in a multiplicity of relevant lab projects and in writing study reports for the study sponsors, papers, and grant applications and is expected to develop research programs as time permits. The incumbent will also be expected to attend and participate in laboratory meetings and CVRC-related seminars, as well as work with graduate students, technicians, fellows and collaborators in the laboratories involved in the project.

Responsibilities

• Full-time research or scholarship at the University.
• Preparatory for a full-time academic or research career.
• Supervised by a senior scholar;
• and allows the appointee to publish the results of his/her research or scholarship.
• In addition to the above job responsibilities, other duties may be assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Education: Doctoral degree at the time of hire.
  Ideal candidates will have a Ph.D. with a strong background in cardiovascular physiology.

Note: Research Associate positions are for candidates who have obtained their PhD within the past 3 years. Candidates who have received or will receive their terminal degree after May 2023 are eligible to apply.

Preferred Qualifications

• The candidate should be highly motivated to develop new research avenues; and should have excellent written and oral communication skills. Experience in vascular physiology, calcium imaging, ion channels, and cardiovascular disorders is preferred

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-leve l, 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 April 27, 2026.

Additional Requirements

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

Reference Check Process

Reference checks will be completed by UVA's third-party partner, SkillSurvey, during the final phase of the interview. Five references will be requested, with at least three responses required.

Contact

• 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.