Research Scientist, Cai Lab, Department of Surgery

The Rector & Visitors of the University of Virginia; Charlottesville (VA); On-site; USD 63,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

The Rector & Visitors of the University of Virginia invite applications for a Research Scientist in the Cai Lab of UVA School of Medicine. The position supports an independent research trajectory at the interface of cardiovascular biology, muscle physiology, pulmonary pathophysiology, and surgical oncology, in a well-funded, collaborative program.

The role emphasizes hands-on molecular and cellular biology, in vivo murine studies, data interpretation, and mentoring within a supportive lab

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or M.D. (or equivalent) in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Physiology, Biomedical Sciences, Pharmacology, or a related discipline or a master's degree with significant experience
• Hands-on experience in molecular and cellular biology techniques (Western blot, qRT-PCR, immunostaining, cell culture)
• Experience with small animal models, particularly studies of skeletal muscle, cardiac muscle, or pulmonary function and disease
• Familiarity with IACUC-compliant animal handling and experimental procedures
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, as evidenced by at least one first-author peer-reviewed publication

Responsibilities

• Design and execute experiments in molecular and cellular biology and small animal models of muscle or lung function and pathophysiology.
• Laboratory management including maintaining mouse breeding colonies, genotyping, and record-keeping per IACUC and UVA vivarium policies.
• Mentor and train junior lab members in experimental techniques, data analysis, and scientific communication.

Skills

Molecular biology

Immunohistochemistry

qRT-PCR

Western blotting

In vivo murine models

Data interpretation

Scientific writing

Education

Ph.D. in Molecular Biology or related discipline

M.D. (or equivalent)

Master's with significant experience

Tools

Immunostaining

Genotyping

Mouse handling

IACUC compliance

Job description

The Cai Lab in the Division of Surgical Sciences at UVA School of Medicine invites applications for a Research Scientist. This position is ideal for a highly motivated scientist eager to develop an independent research trajectory within a well-funded, collaborative program at the intersection of cardiovascular biology, muscle physiology, pulmonary pathophysiology, and surgical oncology.

About the Lab

We use diverse vitro and in vivo experimental platforms to investigate molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying disease processes in cardiac and skeletal muscle, lung, and tumor biology. The lab offers a rigorous yet supportive training environment with strong mentorship, active grant funding, and a track record of trainee career advancement.

Responsibilities

• Research: Design and execute experiments in molecular and cellular biology and small animal models of muscle or lung function and pathophysiology. Specific duties include performing and optimizing in vivo murine studies assessing skeletal or cardiac muscle performance, lung mechanics, injury, and remodeling. Core techniques include cell culture, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, Western blotting, qRT-PCR, ELISA, and histological analysis. The associate will contribute to data interpretation, manuscript preparation, and grant progress reports.
• Lab Management: Assist in maintaining mouse breeding colonies, genotyping, and record-keeping in compliance with IACUC regulations and UVA vivarium policies. Help coordinate reagent inventory and ensure proper upkeep of shared laboratory equipment.
• Mentoring: Assist in training and mentoring junior laboratory members, including undergraduate researchers, medical students, and graduate students, in experimental techniques, data analysis, and scientific communication under the PI's guidance.

Minimum Qualifications

Ph.D. or M.D. (or equivalent) in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Physiology, Biomedical Sciences, Pharmacology, or a related discipline or a master's degree with significant experience

Preferred Qualifications

• Hands-on experience in molecular and cellular biology techniques (Western blot, qRT-PCR, immunostaining, cell culture, etc.)
• Experience with small animal models, particularly studies of skeletal muscle, cardiac muscle, or pulmonary function and disease
• Familiarity with IACUC-compliant animal handling and experimental procedures
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, as evidenced by at least one first-author peer-reviewed publication

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.

The hiring range is $63,480-$65,000, commensurate with education and experience.

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 is a 12-month appointment with the possibility of renewal contingent upon satisfactory performance and the availability of funding.

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

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

Application review will begin after September 30, 2026.

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

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.