Research Assistant Professor

Research Assistant Professor

The Yang Lab in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics at the University of Virginia School of Medicine is seeking a non-tenure-track Assistant Professor for Research. The Yang Lab studies the molecular mechanisms by which cells sense and respond to organelle stress, with particular emphasis on mitochondrial stress signaling, the integrated stress response (ISR), and endoplasmic reticulum stress responses. The laboratory uses an interdisciplinary combination of structural biology, biochemistry, molecular and cell biology, and protein engineering to define the molecular mechanisms underlying these pathways and their roles in human disease. The Research Assistant Professor will conduct independent and collaborative research projects under the direction of Dr. Jie Yang. The successful candidate is expected to perform advanced biochemical, molecular, and cellular studies; contribute to the development and execution of research projects; assist with laboratory operations and management; and provide scientific and technical guidance to other members of the laboratory. The candidate will have substantial independence in developing and executing research projects in coordination with Dr. Yang and will be encouraged to develop new research directions, establish collaborations, contribute to manuscripts, and pursue external research funding.

What You Will Do:

• Design and perform advanced research experiments using approaches including molecular biology, mammalian cell culture, biochemistry, protein expression and purification, fluorescence and confocal microscopy, and cellular functional assays.
• Develop and execute research projects focused on cellular stress-response pathways, including mitochondrial stress signaling and the integrated stress response.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data and contribute to the preparation of manuscripts, presentations, and research proposals.
• Coordinate and participate in laboratory research activities and provide scientific and technical assistance to postdoctoral fellows, graduate students, undergraduate students, visiting scholars, and research staff.
• Train and mentor new laboratory members in experimental methods, laboratory procedures, and data analysis.
• Assist with laboratory management, including organization of research activities, maintenance of laboratory resources, and implementation of experimental procedures and protocols.
• Participate in weekly laboratory meetings and contribute to the evaluation and development of research methods, experimental strategies, and new research directions.
• Establish and facilitate collaborations with investigators within UVA and at other institutions.
• Apply for appropriate internal and external research funding as PI, co-PI, or co-investigator.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

The Research Assistant Professor position is open to candidates with appropriate research experience. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Requirements:

• PhD in biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, structural biology, biophysics, or a related field.
• Postdoctoral research experience.
• Strong record of research productivity and peer-reviewed publications.
• Demonstrated expertise in molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, structural biology, or related experimental approaches.
• Ability to independently design, execute, analyze, and troubleshoot research experiments.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to a collaborative research environment.
• Experience mentoring or training junior researchers.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to coordinate multiple research activities.
• Experience in cellular stress responses, mitochondrial biology, integrated stress signaling, protein biochemistry, or structural biology is preferred.

Application Instructions: The selected applicant will be required to complete a background check and health assessment per University policy. This is a restricted position, and continuation will be dependent upon the availability of funding and satisfactory performance.

To Apply: Complete an application online and attach the following:

• Cover letter summarizing your previous research experience, research interests, and career goals.
• CV/Resume.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: 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.

The University of Virginia offers confidential Dual Career Services to partners of incoming faculty candidates. To learn more, please visit dualcareer.virginia.edu

Each agency within the Commonwealth of Virginia is dedicated to recruiting, supporting, and maintaining a competent and diverse work force. Equal Opportunity Employer