The Lu lab the Department of Cell Biology at the University of Virginia seeks a Research Scientist to investigate how tissue mechanics and cell polarity signaling synergize to drives polarized cell behaviors during mammalian tissue morphogenesis. We have developed a multidisciplinary approach using biochemistry, ex vivo organ culture, fluorescence live imaging and mouse genetics to understand the cellular and molecular mechanisms of (Planar Cell Polarity) PCP signaling and how mutations in this pathway lead to common congenital birth defects such as neural tube defects (NTD) and deafness.

The research scientist will drive the research project, develop and learn new techniques required to advance the aims of the project, interact with other lab members and collaborators, present their work at lab meetings and conferences, and participate in preparing grant applications and manuscripts for publication. The research scientist is also expected mentor graduate and undergraduate students and train new lab personnel. 

The Lu Lab is located in renovated open lab space with a strong, collegial group of neighboring labs studying cell and developmental biology. The lab is committed to a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment, and encourages applications from women and underrepresented groups. The position is available immediately and is supported by NIH funding. 

The Cell Biology Department at UVA is an excellent training environment for curious, highly motivated scientists. The University provides professional development workshops, and there are support communities on campus including the UVA Postdoc Association, UVA Women in Medical Sciences (WIMS) and UVA Queer in Medical Sciences (QIMS).

Minimum Requirements:

Doctoral degree in Developmental Biology, Cell Biology, Neuroscience or a related field

General Qualifications: ​

Postdoctoral research experience in the filed of epithelial morphogenesis, cytoskeletal dynamics and tissue mechanics.

Demonstrated ability to independently conduct of laboratory experiments including experimental design, data display in figures, data analysis including standard statistical analyses, and data management

High level of motivation and curiosity 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.

Preferred Qualifications: 

Experience with mechanobiology and live cell imaging approaches for cellular and molecular dynamics (e.g. FRAP, FRET, FLIM).  

Experience with one or more of these methods:  light microscopy, electron microscopy, cell or tissue culture, micro-manipulation of embryos, molecular biology, RNA-sequencing and bioinformatics, protein biochemistry, genetic analysis, in situ hybridization, flow cytometry.

Proficiency with image analysis software (e.g. Image J, photoshop and Imaris), and biostatics analysis software (e.g. GraphPad Prism and R).

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.

This is an Exempt level, benefited position. For information on the benefits at UVA, visit hr.virginia.edu/benefits. 

This position will not sponsor applicants for work visas.  The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment. 

To Apply:

Please apply through Workday, and search for R0041128. Internal applicants must apply through their UVA Workday profile by searching 'Find Jobs'.   Complete an application online with the following documents:

CV

Cover letter

Upload all materials into the resume submission field, multiple documents can be submitted into this one field. Alternatively, merge all documents into one PDF for submission.  Applications that do not contain all required documents will not receive full consideration.

References will be completed via UVA’s standardized process Skill Survey.  A total of five references will be requested via Skill Survey during the final phase of the interview process.

For questions about the application process, please contact Yelena Markazyan, Recruiter Specialist at ym3mm@virginia.edu

For more information about UVA and the Charlottesville community please see http://www.virginia.edu/life/charlottesville and https://embarkcva.com/.

The University of Virginia, including the UVA Health System which represents the UVA Medical Center, Schools of Medicine and Nursing, UVA Physician’s Group and the Claude Moore Health Sciences Library, are fundamentally committed to the diversity of our faculty and staff.  We believe diversity is excellence expressing itself through every person's perspectives and lived experiences.  We are equal opportunity and affirmative action employers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, national or ethnic origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, veteran status, and family medical or genetic information.