Research Scientist in Biology

University of Virginia; Charlottesville (VA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The Campbell Lab in the Biology Department at the University of Virginia seeks a research scientist to investigate neural circuits governing appetite and metabolism, including those affecting heart function via the vagus nerve. The role involves leading projects, applying genetic tools, and mapping circuits using single-cell RNA‑seq.

A one-year appointment is offered, with potential renewal; salary range is $70,000–$90,000, commensurate with experience.

Qualifications

• Doctoral degree or master's degree with significant experience in Neuroscience, Neurobiology, or related field.
• Expertise in one or more of the lab's techniques: single-cell RNA‑seq; RNA in situ hybridization; confocal microscopy; mouse stereotaxic surgery; optogenetics; fiber photometry.

Responsibilities

• Lead and help drive projects mapping neural circuits controlling energy balance and heart function.
• Monitor neuronal activity in vivo under physiological challenges.
• Characterize roles of hypothalamic and vagal neuron subtypes to define their physiological significance.

Job description

The Campbell Lab (http://www.campbell-lab.com/) in the Biology Department of the University of Virginia (UVA) seeks a research scientist to investigate the neural circuits that control appetite and metabolism, including some that control heart function through the vagus nerve.

Our lab is unraveling these circuits using single-cell RNA‑seq to systematically define the neurons which comprise these circuits as well as their genetic markers and signaling pathways. We then apply marker‑driven genetic tools to map each neuron type’s synaptic circuitry as well as monitor and manipulate their activity in vivo.

Current projects in our lab include: 1) using molecular connectomics to map circuits for control of energy balance and heart function; 2) monitoring neuronal activity in vivo in response to different physiological challenges; and 3) manipulating the activity of hypothalamic and vagal neuron subtypes to characterize their physiological role and significance. We are seeking a creative, self‑motivated, and team‑oriented staff scientist to help lead these projects. Candidates identifying as under‑represented minorities (URMs) are especially encouraged to apply.

QUALIFICATIONS

Candidates for the research scientist position must have a doctoral degree or master’s degree with significant experience in Neuroscience, Neurobiology, or a related field, or equivalent, by the start date. Candidates must have expertise in one or more of the techniques routinely used in the lab: single-cell RNA‑seq; RNA in situ hybridization; confocal microscopy; mouse stereotaxic surgery; optogenetics; fiber photometry.

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

The anticipated salary is $70,000 - $90,000, commensurate with experience.

For questions regarding this position, please contact John Campbell, Associate Professor of Biology, at [e-mail].

For more 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.