Research Scientist- UVA Kulkarni Laboratory

The Kulkarni Laboratory in the Department of Cell Biology at the University of Virginia seeks a highly motivated Research Scientist to drive a funded research program focused on microtubule organization and dynamics in multiciliated epithelial cells (MCCs). This project aims to define how specialized microtubule networks regulate basal body migration, docking, centriole amplification, and ciliogenesis, and how dysregulation of these processes leads to impaired mucociliary function and epithelial disease.

The work will integrate loss-of-function and gain-of-function approaches across multiple experimental systems, including Xenopus embryos, mouse models, and mammalian epithelial and cancer cell lines. A major emphasis will be on mechanistic dissection of microtubule–basal body interactions, microtubule binding and bundling activities, and downstream cellular consequences, including aberrant centriole behavior, nuclear defects, and altered cell architecture. The Research Scientist will play a central role in experimental design and execution, and in data interpretation, and will have opportunities to collaborate with other UVA laboratories with expertise in advanced imaging, mouse genetics, and cilia-related disease models.

Responsibilities

• Lead experimental design, execution, and data interpretation; drive mechanistic investigations of microtubule networks in MCCs and their impact on basal body migration, docking, and ciliogenesis.
• Apply loss-of-function and gain-of-function approaches across Xenopus embryos, mouse models, and mammalian epithelial and cancer cell lines; coordinate cross-system analyses with collaborators.
• Characterize microtubule–basal body interactions, microtubule binding and bundling activities, and downstream cellular outcomes including centriole behavior, nuclear defects, and changes in cell architecture.
• Collaborate with UVA laboratories specializing in advanced imaging, mouse genetics, and models of cilia-related disease.

Qualifications

• Strong experience in cell and developmental biology, including recombinant DNA techniques, mammalian cell culture, transfection, immunofluorescence microscopy, and basic protein biochemistry.
• Desirable expertise in live-cell imaging, quantitative image analysis, electron microscopy, or microtubule biology; familiarity with statistical analysis of biological data.
• Education:
  
  doctoral degree or master’s degree with significant experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ph.D. in biomedical science (physiology, cell biology, immunology, developmental biology) or related field.
• Experience conducting in vivo animal experiments (Xenopus). Proficiency in molecular and cell biology techniques, including microinjections, recombinant DNA construction, protein biochemistry, cell culture, transfection, and immunofluorescence microscopy. Some experience in basic protein biochemistry is preferred, including Western blot analysis, protein expression, and recombinant protein purification.

Physical Demands

This is primarily a sedentary job involving extensive use of desktop computers. The position may require traveling to attend meetings and related programs.

Salary Range
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Salary will be commensurate with education and experience.

Exemption Status
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This is an exempt-level, benefited position. Learn more about UVA benefits.

Funding Details
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This is a restricted position, dependent on funding availability.

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

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

Application Timeline
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Application review will begin after [DATE].

Background Check
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Background checks will be conducted on all new hires prior to employment.

How to Apply
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Please apply online, by searching for requisition number R0080255
. Complete an application with the following documents:

• CV
• Names and contact information for three references

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

Internal applicants
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Search and apply for jobs on the UVA Internal Careers website.

Reference Check Process
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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.

Department Contact
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For questions about the position, please contact Dr. Saurabh Kulkarni.

Recruiter Contact
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For questions about the application process, please contact Margaret Weeks.

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