Postdoc Research Associate, Nephrology

The University of Virginia School of Medicine Nephrology Department is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to lead basic and translational research projects focused on the biology and clinical applications of extracellular vesicles (EVs). The successful candidate will employ advanced molecular, cellular, and translational approaches to investigate EVs as liquid biopsy biomarkers and to elucidate their roles in cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, and diabetic nephropathy. In addition, the candidate will develop engineered EVs for diagnostic and therapeutic applications. Research activities will include the discovery and validation of EV-based biomarkers, the application of state-of-the-art EV technologies to clinical and experimental samples, and studies of EV-mediated intercellular communication. 

The ideal candidate will be a creative scientist committed to advancing both the fundamental understanding and clinical translation of EV biology within a collaborative, multidisciplinary research environment.

Applicants should hold an M.D., Ph.D., M.D./Ph.D., or equivalent doctoral degree in a relevant field. A strong background in cell and tissue culture, molecular and cellular biology techniques, microscopy, and experience with model organisms is required. Prior experience in extracellular vesicle research is desirable but not required. Candidates should possess experience in flow cytometry or demonstrate a strong interest in learning advanced flow cytometric approaches for single-EV characterization. The selected candidate will also be expected to develop expertise in EV isolation and characterization techniques, including nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA), super-resolution imaging, differential ultracentrifugation, and size-exclusion chromatography.

We welcome applications from individuals completing their doctoral training as well as those seeking postdoctoral experience. Preference will be given to candidates with an outstanding publication record, demonstrated scientific productivity, and/or a history of obtaining competitive external funding.  Postdoctoral employment is temporary and is normally limited to an individual who has been awarded a Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate within the previous five years and who will be involved in full-time research or scholarship at the University.

In addition to conducting independent research, the postdoctoral associate will contribute to the laboratory’s collaborative environment by sharing expertise and mentoring students, staff, and research collaborators in EV-related methodologies.

The Postdoctoral Research Associate will work closely with the Principal Investigator and senior scientists while maintaining a high degree of scientific independence. Responsibilities include designing and conducting experiments, developing and implementing novel methodologies, analyzing and interpreting complex datasets, preparing manuscripts and grant applications, and presenting research findings at scientific meetings.

We are committed to supporting the professional development of our trainees. A personalized career development plan will be established for the successful candidate, providing opportunities for mentorship, scientific leadership, grant writing, teaching, and advancement toward an independent research career.

Anticipated Salary: $60-$65,000 annually.

This position WILL sponsor applicants already in the US for work visas.

This is a restricted position; continuation is dependent on funding and satisfactory performance. 

This position is located in Charlottesville, Virginia. This is a full-time benefited position.  For more information on the benefits at UVA, visit www.hr.virginia.edu/benefits. 

The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment.

Application Process:

Please apply online, and search for R0086380. Internal applicants may search and apply for jobs on the UVA Internal Careers website. Complete an application online with the following documents: 

• CV/Resume

• 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 the required documents will not receive full consideration.  This position is open until filled.

References will be completed via UVA’s standardized process SkillSurvey. A total of five references will be requested via SkillSurvey during the final phase of the interview process. A minimum of three are required.

For information regarding the position or the application process, please contact Jessica Speth, Academic Recruiter, js9rk@virginia.edu.

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.