Research Associate in Chemistry

The Department of Chemistry at the University of Virginia seeks applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to join our team in the Pompano lab.  Come be part of a vibrant, supportive, and well funded research group, and help lead the development of organ-on-chip models of immunity.  This project is focused on building models of multi-organ communication after vaccination or in neurodegenerative disease. The project is part of a larger effort in our lab to generate validated models of immunity ex vivo.  By developing new tools and analysis techniques, we seek to provide insight into the mechanisms of inflammatory disease and point to new therapeutic approaches.

Postdoctoral scholars in the Pompano lab receive excellent training for their chosen future career. The successful candidate will write exciting scientific papers, aid with grant proposals, and present at national and/or international conferences. They also will have opportunities to collaborate with colleagues in the School of Medicine, School of Engineering & Applied Sciences, and within the College of Arts & Sciences.  In addition to research, after initial technical training and orientation, postdocs help provide leadership within the lab, assist in the training of graduate and undergraduate students, help maintain a high-energy and collegial lab culture. Postdocs also gain aspects of lab management experience, maintain detailed scientific records of their work, and help keep laboratory safety regulations. All Pompano lab members are encouraged to participate in the vibrant intellectual community at UVA, including participating in seminars and research-in-progress talks in the topic area of their choice.

Completion of a Ph.D. in Chemistry, Biomedical or Chemical Engineering, Immunology, or a related discipline is required by the appointment start date.  A variety of backgrounds and skill sets would be appropriate for the position. 

Preferred relevant skills and experience:

• Immunoengineering, e.g. systems or tools to model or manipulate the immune response
• Development of organs-on-chip
• Microfluidics, e.g. chip design and fabrication, fluid pumping
• Ability to clearly explain the goals and impact of your prior research in written and verbal communication, e.g. in your cover letter and in an interview
• Curiosity to learn new techniques and skills
• Demonstrated ability to bring a project to completion
• Ability to collaborate with team members of diverse backgrounds
• Ability to prioritize tasks and advance multiple projects simultaneously
• Resourcefulness to read the literature and gather information to inform troubleshooting and inspire new ideas
• A dedication to quality, partnership, mutual respect, and safety

Any of the following skills/experience would be a plus:

• Studies of the immune response, e.g. in the context of vaccine development, cancer immunity, neuroimmunity, or autoimmunity
• Multi-color fluorescence microscopy or live imaging
• Aseptic cell and tissue culture
• Building electronic or programmable systems

This is a one-year appointment that may be renewed for up to two additional one-year terms, contingent upon available funding and satisfactory performance.  
Apply online at https://uva.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/UVAJobs and electronically attach the following:

• A cover letter that explains why you are interested in joining the Pompano lab, how the project and position fit into your career goals, and a brief summary of your relevant research experience (1 – 2 pages).
• Curriculum vitae with contact information for three (3) references.  Listing references represents permission to contact them unless you specify otherwise in your cover letter.

Review of applications will begin on November 13, 2023, and the position will remain open until filled. The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment.

Questions regarding this position should be directed to Prof. Rebecca Pompano, Ph.D. at PompanoGroup@virginia.edu .
For questions about the application process, please contact Rich Haverstrom, Faculty Search Advisor, at rkh6j@virginia.edu .

For more information on the community and benefits available to postdoctoral associates at UVA, visit postdoc.virginia.edu

The University of Virginia, i ncluding the UVA Health System which represents the UVA Medical Center, Schools of Medicine and Nursing, UVA Physician’s Group and the Claude Moore Health Sciences Library, are fundamentally committed to the diversity of our faculty and staff.  We believe diversity is excellence expressing itself through every person’s perspectives and lived experiences.  We are equal opportunity and affirmative action employers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, national or ethnic origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, veteran status, and family medical or genetic information.