Research Scientist

Responsibilities

• Establish and maintain mammalian expression systems for large‑scale membrane protein production.
• Isolate membrane proteins in yields sufficient for lipidomic analysis.
• Perform mass‑spec‑based lipidomic data acquisition, analysis, and interpretation.
• Develop new methods as the project’s techniques are being newly established.
• Interface and coordinate research activities across the Levental, Bao, Kenworthy, and Kiessling/Tamm laboratories.
• Provide technical lab support by performing complex, research‑related tasks and acting as a specialist on methods and equipment specific to the project.
• Adapt and modify methods and procedures to meet evolving research needs.
• Operate independently on daily activities without supervision; manage longer‑term assignments with appropriate oversight.
• Specialize in protein expression, isolation, biophysical characterization, and lipidomics data analysis.
• Troubleshoot experimental problems and recommend solutions.
• Assist in evaluating research methods, procedures, and techniques against established objectives.
• Provide basic assistance to researchers in data manipulation, computation, and analysis.
• Evaluate experimental results using statistical and multivariate analyses.
• Research, compile, and maintain complex statistical, numerical, and computerized reports.
• Conduct literature and library research to support project goals.
• Assist in training other staff members on laboratory procedures.
• Explain work and adapt general methods and procedures to meet specific research needs.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Education: PhD in molecular biology, biochemistry, or biophysics (required).
• Experience: Minimum of 4 years of relevant laboratory experience, including protein biochemistry and lipid biophysics (required).
• Licensure: None.

Physical Demands

This position is primarily sedentary, involving extensive use of desktop computers. Occasional travel may be required to attend meetings and programs.

Additional Information

The position is restricted and contingent upon the continuation of funding and will remain open until filled. For further information, please contact Jon Stafford at js8sj@virginia.edu. For questions regarding the application process, contact Eric Allen, Academic Recruiter, at uth9qh@virginia.edu.