Research Associate in Biochemistry & Molecular Genetics

Lab Overview

The Kaya Lab at UVA is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join our dynamic and collaborative team. Our lab focuses on both basic and translational research, investigating the biology of aging and age‑related diseases. We utilize a range of experimental systems, including transgenic animal models, dietary interventions, and cutting‑edge genome engineering tools. The lab website:
kayalab.org
.

• Neuroinflammation in Neurodegenerative Diseases – Investigating the role and molecular regulators of neuroinflammation in mouse models of neurodegeneration.
• Cellular Senescence and Polyploidy – Understanding how polyploid genomes influence senescence and the associated cellular phenotypes.
• Aging, Cancer, and Metabolism – Exploring the mechanisms of age‑ and cancer‑associated metabolic disorders and epigenetic changes linked to aneuploidy.
• Mitochondrial DNA in Aging and Disease – Studying the role of cytoplasmic mitochondrial DNA fragments in aging and neurodegeneration.

• Curiosity, independence, and drive.
• Design, execute experiments, analyze data, prepare manuscripts and grants, and present findings at lab meetings and conferences.
• Prepared for a full‑time academic or research career and supervised by a senior scholar, allowing the candidate to publish research results during the training period.
• Other duties may be assigned.

Applicants must have a doctoral degree in hand by the start date, preferably a Ph.D. in neuroscience, mitochondrial biology, cancer biology, aging, or a related field. Ideal candidates will have hands‑on experience in the following areas:

• Mammalian cell culture
• Mouse genetics and animal husbandry
• Molecular cloning and CRISPR or other genome engineering techniques
• Tissue preparation for immunohistochemistry/immunofluorescence

Candidates should be self‑motivated and able to work independently as well as collaboratively. Candidates should also have strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.

Postdoctoral employment is a 12‑month appointment with the possibility of renewal for an additional two one‑year increments contingent upon satisfactory performance and the availability of funding. Salary will be commensurate with education and experience. The position is exempt‑level, benefited, and is based in Charlottesville, VA. Applicants must perform the work fully on‑site. Background checks and pre‑employment health screenings will be conducted prior to employment.

Please apply online, searching for requisition number R0078159. Complete an application with the following documents:

• Resume
• Cover letter
• Contact information for three professional references

Upload all materials in the resume submission field. Applications without all required documents will not receive full consideration. For questions about the application process, please contact Jeremy Brofft, Senior Recruiter at xmf9ad
.

The 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.