Postdoctoral Research Associate, Cai Lab, Department of Surgery

The Cai Lab in the Division of Surgical Sciences at UVA School of Medicine invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate. This position is ideal for a highly motivated early‑career scientist eager to develop an independent research trajectory within a well‑funded, collaborative program at the intersection of cardiovascular biology, muscle physiology, pulmonary pathophysiology, and surgical oncology.

We use diverse vitro and in vivo experimental platforms to investigate molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying disease processes in cardiac and skeletal muscle, lung, and tumor biology. The lab offers a rigorous yet supportive training environment with strong mentorship, active grant funding, and a track record of trainee career advancement.

• Research:
  Design and execute experiments in molecular and cellular biology and small animal models of muscle or lung function and pathophysiology. Specific duties include performing and optimizing in vivo murine studies assessing skeletal or cardiac muscle performance, lung mechanics, injury, and remodeling. Core techniques include cell culture, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, Western blotting, qRT-PCR, ELISA, and histological analysis. The associate will contribute to data interpretation, manuscript preparation, and grant progress reports.
• Lab Management:
  Assist in maintaining mouse breeding colonies, genotyping, and record‑keeping in compliance with IACUC regulations and UVA vivarium policies. Help coordinate reagent inventory and ensure proper upkeep of shared laboratory equipment.
• Mentoring:
  Assist in training and mentoring junior laboratory members, including undergraduate researchers, medical students, and graduate students, in experimental techniques, data analysis, and scientific communication under the PI's guidance.

Ph.D. or M.D. (or equivalent) in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Physiology, Biomedical Sciences, Pharmacology, or a related discipline.

• Hands‑on experience in molecular and cellular biology techniques (Western blot, qRT-PCR, immunostaining, cell culture, etc.)
• Experience with small animal models, particularly studies of skeletal muscle, cardiac muscle, or pulmonary function and disease.
• Familiarity with IACUC‑compliant animal handling and experimental procedures.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, as evidenced by at least one first‑author peer‑reviewed publication.

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.

$63,480–$65,000, commensurate with education and experience.

This is a restricted, exempt‑level position, dependent on funding and is contingent upon funding availability. This is a 12‑month appointment with the possibility of renewal contingent upon satisfactory performance and the availability of funding.

Charlottesville, VA. Must be performed fully on‑site.

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.