Physics Lab Specialist

Physics Laboratory Research Operations and Service 3

The Micro-Pattern Gas detector (MPGD) group of Professors Nilanga Liyanage and Huong Nguyen in the Physics department at the University of Virginia, is seeking to hire a Laboratory Research Operations and Service 3 position.

Physics is the foundation of scientific discovery, shaping our understanding of the universe and driving innovation across disciplines. At the University of Virginia, the Department of Physics is committed to advancing knowledge through cutting‑edge research, exceptional teaching, and meaningful public engagement. We foster a vibrant academic community where faculty and students collaborate on fundamental and applied research, publish in leading journals, and contribute to nationally and internationally recognized scientific programs.

The primary purpose of this position is to develop and construct advanced particle detectors to be used in nuclear and particle physics experiments conducted at Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility (Jefferson Lab). These experiments are aimed at understanding the structure of sub‑nucleonic particles.

The responsibilities of this laboratory specialist include assisting in the design and fabrication of Gas Electron Multiplier (GEM) detectors, testing and characterization of these detectors, and installation of these detectors in Jefferson Lab, the laboratory specialist will also be required to participate in the running of experiments at Jefferson lab and the analysis of data from the experiments

• Education:
  
  Bachelor's degree required, may accept combination of experience/education/certification in lieu of degree.
• Experience:
  
  1+ year of relevant lab experience required.
• Licensure/
  
  Certifications:
  
  None

• Education:
  
  Bachelor's degree in Physics
• Education:
  
  Master's degree in physics, physics instrumentation of a related field
• Experience:
  
  Extensive experience in the construction and testing of GEM detectors
• Experience:
  
  Constructing lab spaces for GEM detector construction.
• Experience:
  
  Constructing assembly fixtures for GEM detector construction

This position can spend extensive periods of time standing and squatting while conducting experiments or caring for animals. Also requires keyboarding and other bench work and animal procedures requiring fine finger manipulation.

• The anticipated hiring range is $22.00 - $25.00 or commensurate with education and experience.

• This is a non‑exempt‑level, benefited position. Learn more about UVA 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 in the Charlottesville area, visit UVA Life and Embark CVA.

Application review will begin after December 21, 2025.

• Background checks will be conducted on all new hires prior to employment.
• This position will not consider candidates who require immigration sponsorship at this time.

Please apply online
, by searching for requisition number R0078619
. 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 Nilanga Liyanage, Professor, at nl8n
• For questions about the application process, please contact Rich Haverstrom, Academic Recruiter at rkh6j

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.