Research Associate, Department of Neuroscience

The Rector & Visitors Of The University Of Virginia - Charlottesville, VA

Full-time - Entry Level

Charlottesville, VA

About the position

The Lukens Lab in the Department of Neuroscience and the Center of Brain Immunology and Glia (BIG) at the University of Virginia is seeking a motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to investigate the contributions of the innate immune system and cell death pathways to Alzheimer's disease. The lab focuses on understanding the roles of inflammasomes, immune-based DNA damage sensors, ITAM/ITIM receptors, and microbiota in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. This position offers an opportunity to manage independent research projects, collaborate with lab members and external partners, and present findings at conferences and lab meetings. Additionally, the role includes contributing to grant applications and manuscripts for publication, as well as mentoring students. The appointment is for 12 months, with the possibility of renewal based on performance and funding availability. Postdoctoral employment is typically temporary and is intended for individuals who have recently completed their Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate. This role is designed to provide training and preparation for a full-time academic or research career, under the supervision of a senior scholar, allowing the appointee to publish their research findings during the training period. The University of Virginia, located in the historical and picturesque city of Charlottesville, offers a vibrant community with excellent schools and affordable housing, situated less than two hours from Washington, DC, and an hour from Richmond, VA.

Responsibilities

• Manage independent research projects related to Alzheimer's disease.
• Interact with lab members and collaborators to advance research goals.
• Present research findings at lab meetings and conferences.
• Contribute to grant applications and manuscripts for publication.
• Learn new techniques as part of training requirements.
• Mentor and teach students in the lab.

Requirements

• Doctoral degree in immunology, neuroscience, or a related field by the start date of the appointment.
• First author publication(s).
• Experience in the independent conduct of laboratory experiments including experimental design and data management.
• Interest and confidence in developing new techniques for hypothesis testing.
• High level of motivation and technical capacity to drive a research project.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication skills, demonstrated by a strong publication record and presentations at conferences.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.

Nice-to-haves

• Strong background in neurodegenerative disease research, neurobiology, or immunology.
• Experience with mouse models of neurodegenerative disease.
• Experience with confocal microscopy, cell or tissue culture, molecular biology, RNA-sequencing and bioinformatics, behavior studies, and flow cytometry.
• Demonstrated creativity and flexibility in experimental design or new methods.

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• 401k retirement plan
• Paid holidays
• Paid time off (PTO)
• Tuition reimbursement
• Professional development opportunities
• Flexible scheduling