Research Scientist Biochemistry & Molecular Genetics, Yang Lab

Position Overview

The Yang Laboratory in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Virginia School of Medicine, is seeking 1-2 highly motivated Research Scientists (Sr. Postdoctoral Researchers) to join our growing research team.

The Yang Laboratory is dedicated to understanding the molecular mechanisms governing cellular stress responses, with a particular focus on mitochondrial stress, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, the unfolded protein response (UPR), and the integrated stress response (ISR). We combine state‑of‑the‑art cryo‑EM, protein biochemistry, biophysics, and cell biology to elucidate how these signaling pathways are regulated in health and disease.

Our long‑term goal is to translate mechanistic discoveries into innovative therapeutic strategies for human diseases, including neurodegeneration, metabolic diseases, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer.

The laboratory is housed within the University of Virginia School of Medicine and benefits from outstanding research infrastructure, including world‑class cryo‑EM facilities, collaborative interdisciplinary research programs, and a vibrant scientific community.

Research Scientists are expected to work independently and lead small groups; they are not expected to provide formal guidance to students or participate in the instructional program.

• Lead and conduct innovative research projects investigating the molecular mechanisms of cellular stress response signaling using structural biology, biochemistry, and cell biology approaches.
• Design and execute experiments, analyze and interpret data, and develop new experimental strategies.
• Contribute to manuscript preparation and publication in high‑impact peer‑reviewed journals.
• Present research findings at departmental seminars, national, and international scientific conferences.
• Develop independent research ideas and pursue fellowship and grant opportunities with mentorship from the Principal Investigator.
• Mentor graduate students, undergraduate researchers, and research staff as appropriate, and foster a collaborative laboratory environment.
• Contribute to laboratory operations, including maintaining research resources, ensuring compliance with laboratory safety policies, and participating in regular group meetings.

Requires a doctoral degree or equivalent, preferably in Structural biology, Chemical biology, Biochemistry, or Cell biology. 3–5 years of experience in an academic setting is preferred.

This is primarily a sedentary job involving extensive use of beach work and desktop computers. The job does occasionally require traveling some distance to attend meetings, and programs.

Salary Range: $63,000–$70,000 annually, commensurate with qualifications and experience.

This is an exempt‑level, benefited position. Learn more about UVA benefits.

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

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

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.