Research Scientist - McMahon Lab

University of Virginia; Charlottesville (VA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

The McMahon lab at University of Virginia is seeking a PhD-trained neuroscientist with 3–5 years of postdoctoral experience in rodent neurophysiology and behavioral neuroscience. The candidate will lead in vivo electrophysiology in anesthetized or awake rodents, plus in vivo fiber photometry and behavioral assays.

In vitro brain slice expertise is a plus, with a strong first-author publication record. The Research Scientist will plan, direct, and oversee federally funded projects, perform

Qualifications

• PhD with 3–5 years of postdoctoral research experience in rodent neurophysiology.
• Strong publication record with first author manuscripts.
• Ability to work independently and manage a research team.

Responsibilities

• Direct planning and oversight of federally funded rodent research projects.
• Conduct hands-on electrophysiology, fiber photometry, and behavioral testing.
• Train graduate students and postdocs; manage weekly lab activities and meetings.

Skills

In vivo electrophysiology

Fiber photometry

Behavioral assays

Rodent neurophysiology

Postdoc experience

Education

Doctoral degree

Master's with significant experience

Job description

McMahon lab is in search of a PhD trained neuroscientist with at least 3-5 years of postdoctoral research experience in a rodent neurophysiology and behavioral laboratory. This individual must have documented experience with in in vivo electrophysiology in anesthetized rodents or awake behaving rodents, in vivo fiber photometry, and behavioral assays. In vitro brain slice expertise will be considered a plus. Expertise should be documented with a strong publication record with first author manuscripts. Being able to work independently and also being able to manage a research team is expected. This person will join a laboratory with a lab manager, staff scientist, two postdoctoral fellows and a junior lab technician.

Responsibilities

The Research Scientist will work closely with Dr. McMahon in planning, directing, and overseeing ongoing federally funded research projects using rodent models, as well as developing new areas of research and methodologies for future studies. This person will closely assist Dr. McMahon in the research direction of the laboratory and will be expected to conduct hands-on experiments as the primary effort. In addition, depending on the individual, this person could have protected time to develop their own line of research and develop new methodology in the laboratory. The Research Scientist will also work closely with the laboratory manager and the other staff scientists in the day-to-day operation of the laboratory, including ensuring that laboratory research compliance is maintained, IACUC protocols are developed, submitted, and renewed on a timely basis. The Research Scientist will be expected to assist in training graduate students and post-doctoral fellows in electrophysiology techniques, behavior, and data analysis, as well as in manuscript and grant writing. The Research Scientist will assist Dr. McMahon in managing weekly laboratory meetings, will present data at lab meetings, and will attend national and international conferences on an annual basis.

In addition to the above job responsibilities, other duties may be assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Education: Requires a doctoral degree or master's degree with significant experience.

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 September 29, 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.