Glial biologist in a Research Scientist role - University of Virginia

Created by Jonathan Knight
Aug 06, 2020
3 min read

The Kucenas Lab at the University of Virginia has an immediate opening for a glial biologist in a Research Scientist role. Join our team and contribute to our innovative program investigating cellular and molecular mechanisms that govern glial development in the nervous system using zebrafish as a model. Currently in the lab, we are investigating: 1) the development and maintenance of nervous system transition zones, 2) the molecular mechanisms that mediate glial tiling, 3) elucidating the glial heterogeneity present in both the CNS and PNS and 4) the role of glia in nervous system disease and regeneration. This position, supported by The Owens Family Foundation and the NIH, involves basic and translational research using zebrafish and we are seeking an enthusiastic, focused and creative candidate to join our team.


We invite applications from creative researchers with zebrafish glial expertise to play a leading role in our research effort. Our group currently has one research scientist, two post-doctoral research associate, and five graduate students. The successful candidate can also participate in our collaborations with labs within UVA, as well elsewhere, and they will have the opportunity to develop new projects, proposals and publications. In addition, the researcher will take on a senior role in our laboratory at UVA. They will help train graduate and undergraduate students in the areas of glial biology, developmental neuroscience, as well as data acquisition and analysis.


QUALIFICATIONS:  A Ph.D. in Neuroscience or a related discipline (i.e. Biology, Cell and Developmental Biology, etc.) with no less than four years of post-doctoral experience.   Significant expertise in molecular biology techniques including DNA methodologies, PCR, CRISPR, genotyping, and complex construct cloning for the creation of new zebrafish lines. Additionally, at least four years of experience using zebrafish to study glial cells during development, expertise in in vivo imaging, and a record of publications that supports excellence in these areas.


APPLICATION PROCEDURE: Apply online at https://uva.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/UVAJobs/job/Charlottesville-VA/Research-Scientist-in-Biology_R0017382  and attach the following items as a single complied PDF in the “Resume” field.

  • A cover letter that explains why you are interested in joining the Kucenas Lab in this unique position, how the position fits into your career goals, and a brief summary of your relevant research experience (max. 2 pages).
  • Curriculum vitae
  • Contact information for three (3) references if not already included in the CV. Listing them here represents permission to contact them unless you specify otherwise in your cover letter.

Please note that multiple documents can be uploaded in the box.


APPLICATION DEADLINE: Review of applications will begin on September 6, 2020, and the position will remain open until filled.  The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment.


This is a one-year appointment that may be renewed contingent upon available funding and satisfactory performance.


For questions regarding this position, please contact Sarah Kucenas, Ph.D. at sk4ub@virginia.edu.


For questions about the application process, please contact Rich Haverstrom, Faculty Search Advisor, at rkh6j@virginia.edu.


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


The historic University of Virginia is consistently ranked one of the top 3 public universities in the country by US News and World Report, with a vibrant research enterprise that support cross-disciplinary scholarship. We are located in beautiful Charlottesville, VA, near the Blue Ridge mountains, with a strong cultural and restaurant scene and college town energy. Travel to Washington, DC in just two hours, or the Atlantic ocean in three.


The University of Virginia, including 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.