Research Scientist, Cai Lab, Department of Surgery

About the Lab

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.

We use diverse in 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.
• Perform and optimize in vivo murine studies assessing skeletal or cardiac muscle performance, lung mechanics, injury, and remodeling.
• Utilize core techniques including cell culture, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, Western blotting, qRT-PCR, ELISA, and histological analysis.
• 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.

Pay

The hiring range is $63,480–$65,000, commensurate with education and experience. This is an exempt-level, benefited position.

Schedule

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.

Benefits

Learn more about UVA benefits.