Research Scientist Biochemistry & Molecular Genetics, Yang Lab

University of Virginia; Charlottesville (VA); On-site; USD 63,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

The Yang Laboratory in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics at the University of Virginia seeks 1–2 highly motivated Research Scientists to join as Sr. Postdoctoral Researchers in Charlottesville, VA.

The group studies mitochondrial and cellular stress signaling using cryo‑EM, biochemistry, biophysics, and cell biology to illuminate disease mechanisms. Successful candidates will design and execute experiments, analyze data, and contribute to publications while pursuing

Qualifications

• Requires a doctoral degree in structural biology, biochemistry, or cell biology.
• 3–5 years of post-graduate academic experience preferred.
• Experience mentoring students and collaborating across teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead and conduct innovative research projects on cellular stress signaling using structural biology, biochemistry, and cell biology.
• Design and execute experiments, analyze data, and develop new strategies.
• Contribute to manuscript preparation and publications.
• Present findings at seminars and conferences.
• Develop independent ideas and pursue fellowships and grants with mentorship.
• Mentor graduate students and staff, fostering collaboration.
• Support lab operations and safety compliance.

Skills

Structural biology

Biochemistry

Cell biology

Mentoring

Grant writing

Education

PhD in relevant field

Tools

Cryo-EM

Protein biochemistry techniques

Cryo-electron microscopy

Cell biology methods

Job description

The Yang Laboratory in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Virginia School of Medicine, is seeking 1–2 highly motivated Research Scientists (Sr. Postdoctoral Researchers) to join our growing research team.

The Yang Laboratory is dedicated to understanding the molecular mechanisms governing cellular stress responses, with a particular focus on mitochondrial stress, endoplasmic reticulum stress, the unfolded protein response, and the integrated stress response. We combine state-of-the-art cryo‑EM, protein biochemistry, biophysics, and cell biology to elucidate how these signaling pathways are regulated in health and disease.

Our long‑term goal is to translate mechanistic discoveries into innovative therapeutic strategies for human diseases, including neurodegeneration, metabolic diseases, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer.

Successful candidates will investigate the molecular mechanisms of cellular stress response signaling using an interdisciplinary approach that integrates cryo‑electron microscopy, structural biology, protein biochemistry, and cell biology. Projects focus on uncovering the molecular basis of stress signaling and developing novel strategies to therapeutically modulate these pathways.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead and conduct innovative research projects investigating the molecular mechanisms of cellular stress response signaling using structural biology, biochemistry, and cell biology approaches.
• Design and execute experiments, analyze and interpret data, and develop new experimental strategies.
• Contribute to manuscript preparation and publication in high‑impact peer‑reviewed journals.
• Present research findings at departmental seminars, national, and international scientific conferences.
• Develop independent research ideas and pursue fellowship and grant opportunities with mentorship from the Principal Investigator.
• Mentor graduate students, undergraduate researchers, and research staff as appropriate, and foster a collaborative laboratory environment.
• Contribute to laboratory operations, including maintaining research resources, ensuring compliance with laboratory safety policies, and participating in regular group meetings.

Qualifications

• Requires a doctoral degree or equivalent, preferably in structural biology, chemical biology, biochemistry, or cell biology.
• 3–5 years experience in an academic setting is preferred.

Physical Demands

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

Salary Range

$63,000–$70,000 annually, commensurate with qualifications and experience. This is an exempt‑level, benefited position.

Location

This position is based in Charlottesville, VA, and must be performed fully on‑site.

Background Checks and Pre‑Employment Health Screenings

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

Contact

For questions about the application process, please contact Jeremy Brofft, Senior Academic Recruiter at [e-mail]. For questions about this position, please contact Dr. Jie Yang [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.