Lab Research Professional UVA Spiliotis Lab

The Department of Cell Biology at the University of Virginia School of Medicine is seeking a Lab Specialist Intermediate to work in Dr. Elias Spiliotis’s laboratory. Lab specialists perform complex laboratory and research tasks, work independently in developing, designing, and conducting experimental procedures, oversee day‑to‑day lab operations and equipment maintenance, manage lab budgets, and can supervise support personnel.

• Specialise in lab research methods and equipment functions with a focus on protein biochemistry and purification of recombinant proteins using fast performance liquid chromatography (FPLC).
• Design and execute molecular cloning projects and purify DNA constructs.
• Perform vitro reconstitution assays with cytoskeletal polymers (actin, microtubules) using total internal reflection fluorescence (TIRF) microscopy.
• Perform biochemical assays that test for protein interactions and post‑translational modifications of proteins.
• Prepare materials and reagents commonly shared by the lab for routine experiments.
• Perform cell‑biological experiments using microscopy on a need basis.
• Acquire, analyze, and interpret data.
• Supervise, train, and assist lab members in lab techniques and procedures as needed.
• Oversee day‑to‑day lab activities and operations, including lab purchases and budgets.
• Maintain lab digital databases and inventories.
• Operate and maintain basic lab equipment and train users, including high and ultra‑speed centrifuges.
• Act as a liaison to other labs and research projects.
• Participate in lab meetings.
• Contribute to grant research proposals, publications, and presentation of data at research conferences.

• Education:
  
  Bachelor’s degree required.
• Experience:
  
  3+ years of relevant experience.

This position can require extended periods of standing and squatting while conducting experiments or caring for animals, along with keyboarding, bench work, and animal procedures that require finer finger manipulation.

Anticipated salary is $55,000, commensurate with education and experience.

This is an exempt‑level, benefited position.

This position has a term limit of July 1, 2027 after which continued employment will depend on department need and funding.

This position is based in Charlottesville, VA, and 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.