Research Scientist, Department of Surgery

Research Scientist, Department of Surgery

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The Department of Surgery at the University of Virginia School of Medicine seeks a Research Scientist. The Research Scientist 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 would be helpful, but is not required.

• 60%:
  Planning, design, execution, and management of research projects, studies and activities in a research laboratory investigating cancer; execution of ongoing research projects; development and implementation of goals and objectives of studies; design and execution of complex laboratory experiments; advanced molecular and cellular techniques; data collection, analysis and interpretation; development and implementation of new/revised research methodologies and techniques; test experimental designs, sampling techniques, and analytical methods and make recommendations for utilization;
  
  assist in establishing controls, criteria, and research standards; critical analysis of literature relevant to research; coordinate laboratory activities and work assignments for graduate and undergraduate students and laboratory research staff.
• 25%:
  Assist in the preparation of research papers and manuscripts for publication and presentation at national conferences and workshops, and in the writing of 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 PI on progress of research; oversee and coordinate periodic maintenance and testing of laboratory equipment; perform additional duties as assigned.
• 5%:
  Participate in teamwork, assist in mentoring medical students, undergraduate students.

• Doctoral degree or master's degree with significant experience.

• 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 does occasionally require 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 benefits available, visit postdoc.virginia.edu and hr.virginia.edu/benefits.

This is a restricted position, which is dependent on funding and is contingent upon funding availability.

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

To learn more about UVA and the Charlottesville area, visit UVA Life and Embark CVA.

Application review will begin after January 29, 2026.

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

Please apply online, by searching for requisition number R0079161. 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.

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

• Mid‑Senior level

• Full‑time

• Other

• Higher Education