Research Assistant Professor

Overview

The position provides technical and leadership support for the Viral Genetics and Host Interactions (VG-HI) lab in the College of Veterinary Medicine at Virginia Tech. The individual will report to Dr. James Weger-Lucarelli. The work involves cutting-edge research in cancer biology and developing strategies to treat cancer. Duties include molecular and immunological assays, 2D and 3D cell culture (including primary cells), and procedures with mice.

Basic and advanced computational tasks are required for data analysis and interpretation. The role includes data analysis, reporting, manuscript and grant preparation, project management and leadership/training tasks, compliance with safety regulations, and assistance with SOP development. The individual is expected to work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams from academia, government, and industry, and to serve as PI/Co-PI on projects.

• Perform molecular and immunological assays and conduct 2D and 3D cell culture, including work with primary cells.
• Carry out procedures with mice as part of experimental workflows.
• Apply basic and advanced computational methods for data analysis and interpretation.
• Analyze data, prepare reports, and contribute to manuscript and grant preparation.
• Engage in project management and provide leadership and training to team members.
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations and assist in the development and updating of standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams from academia, government, and industry; participate as PI/Co-PI on projects.

• Successful completion of a PhD in molecular biology, cancer biology, immunology, or related fields
• Substantial experience independently organizing and conducting complex procedures and experiments
• Demonstrated experience leading research projects to completion as evidenced by multiple first-author publications
• Clear communication skills as evidenced by presentations at national conferences, seminar presentations, past teaching, and/or manuscript publication
• Experience working with microorganisms and biosafety
• Proficiency in molecular and protein biology techniques
• Enthusiastic, detail-oriented, organized, efficient, able to learn new techniques, and able to work well with others

• Demonstrated program management and supervisory experience of junior lab staff
• Success in proposal development and managing extramural funded programs

• Hours per week: 40+;
  Salary information: commensurate with experience
• Appointment Type:
  Restricted;
  Overtime Status:
  Exempt
• Criminal conviction check may be required
• Review Date:
  October 1, 2025

Virginia Tech is an inclusive land‑grant university committed to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university emphasizes professional development opportunities and shared governance. Virginia Tech does not discriminate based on age, color, disability, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status. If you require an accommodation due to disability, please contact Dr.

James Weger at weger during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.