Research Associate, Department of Surgery

Research Associate, Department of Surgery

Join to apply for the Research Associate, Department of Surgery role at University of Virginia.

The Department of Surgery at the University of Virginia School of Medicine seeks a Postdoctoral Research Associate. The Research Associate will participate in the planning, design, execution, and management of research projects that specifically focus on the role of the tumor microenvironment in various oncologic disease processes within the Tsung‑Zhang‑Ruff lab. Experience with mouse models is helpful, but not required.

• 60%:
  Participate in planning, design, execution, and management of research projects and studies; develop and implement goals and objectives of studies; design and execute complex laboratory experiments; perform advanced molecular and cellular techniques; collect, analyze and interpret research data; assist in development and implementation of new or revised research methodologies; test experimental designs, sampling techniques, and analytical methods and make recommendations for utilization;
  
  assist in establishing controls, criteria and research standards; perform critical analysis of relevant literature; coordinate laboratory activities and work assignments for graduate and undergraduate students and laboratory staff.
• 25%:
  Assist in the preparation of research papers and manuscripts for publication and presentation at national conferences and workshops; assist in writing project reports, articles and other documents; assist principal investigator in the preparation of proposals to obtain new or renewal of extramural funding in support of research.
• 10%:
  Provide updates to the PI on progress of research; oversee and coordinate periodic maintenance and testing of laboratory equipment; perform additional duties as assigned.
• 5%:
  Participate in teamwork and assist in mentoring medical students and undergraduate students.

Education:

Doctoral degree.

• Experience with planning, design, execution, and management of research projects that specifically focus on the role of the tumor microenvironment in various oncologic disease processes.
• Experience with small animals.

This is primarily a sedentary job involving extensive use of desktop computers. The job occasionally requires traveling some distance to attend meetings and programs.

Salary will be commensurate with education and experience.

This is an exempt-level, benefited position. For more information on the benefits available to postdoctoral associates at UVA, visit postdoc.virginia.edu and hr.virginia.edu/benefits.

This position is based in Charlottesville, VA, and must be performed fully on-site.

Application review will begin after November 29, 2025.

Background checks and pre-employment health screenings will be conducted on all new hires prior to employment.

This position will not consider candidates who require immigration sponsorship now or in the future.

Please apply online by searching for requisition number R0078212. Complete an application with the following documents:

• Resume
• Cover Letter

Upload all materials into the resume submission field. You can submit multiple documents into this one field or combine them into one PDF. Applications without all required documents will not receive full consideration.

Reference checks will be completed by UVA’s third‑party partner, Skill Survey, during the final phase of the interview. Five references will be requested, with at least three responses required.

For questions about the position, please contact Samantha Ruff, JZP9RG.

For questions about the application process, please contact Jessica Russo, Senior Recruiter, sxv9zv.

University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.  to read more about UVA’s commitment to non‑discrimination and equal opportunity employment.