Research Scientist - McMahon Lab

The Rector & Visitors of the University of Virginia; Charlottesville (VA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

The Research Scientist at The Rector & Visitors of the University of Virginia will work closely with Dr. McMahon to plan, direct, and oversee federally funded research projects using rodent models and to develop new research directions and methodologies.

The role involves hands-on experiments and close collaboration with the lab manager and staff scientists to ensure compliant operations. You will assist in training graduate students and post‑doctoral fellows in electrophysiology techniques,

Qualifications

• Doctoral degree or master's degree with significant experience required.
• Experience supervising/training graduate students and post‑docs preferred.
• Experience with rodent models, electrophysiology, behavior, and data analysis is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Plan, direct, and oversee federally funded research projects using rodent models.
• Assist in training graduate students and post‑doctoral fellows in electrophysiology, behavior, and data analysis.
• Assist in manuscript and grant writing and manage weekly laboratory meetings.
• Present data at lab meetings and attend national and international conferences annually.
• Ensure IACUC protocols are developed, submitted, and renewed on time.

Skills

Electrophysiology

Data analysis

Laboratory management

Experimental design

Grant writing

Education

Doctoral degree

Master's degree with significant experience

Tools

Electrophysiology equipment

Statistical software

Job description

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. 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 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.