Senior Research Scientist, Cai Lab, Department of Surgery

The Cai Lab in the Division of Surgical Sciences, Department of Surgery at UVA School of Medicine seeks a full-time Senior Research Scientist. This is a senior-level, non-tenure-track position within an externally funded, highly productive research program at the intersection of cardiovascular biology, cardiac surgery, and oncology.

About the Lab

We investigate the molecular and cellular mechanisms of myocardial infarction, cardiac remodeling, and tumor progression using a broad range of in vitro and in vivo platforms. The lab is well-funded, collaborative, and committed to rigorous science in a supportive environment.

Responsibilities

The successful candidate will contribute independently to ongoing research across three domains:

• Research: Design and execute experiments in molecular/cellular biology, small animal cardiovascular models, and in vivo cancer studies. Core duties include performing murine myocardial infarction surgeries (LAD ligation or ischemia-reperfusion), conducting and interpreting echocardiographic imaging, and carrying out orthotopic transplantation of cancer cells. Additional techniques include immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, qRT-PCR, ELISA, and flow cytometry. The scientist will contribute to manuscript preparation, grant applications, and IACUC protocol submissions.
• Lab Management: Oversee mouse breeding colonies, genotyping, and vivarium compliance. Manage reagent inventory, equipment maintenance, and biosafety practices per UVA EHS guidelines.
• Mentoring: Train and mentor undergraduate, medical, and graduate students in experimental techniques, data analysis, and scientific writing. Assist the PI in monitoring trainee progress.

Minimum Qualifications

Doctoral degree in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Physiology, Pharmacology, or a related field

Preferred Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of postdoctoral and/or research scientist experience with progressively independent responsibility
• Expertise in at least three of the following: (a) molecular and cellular biology; (b) small animal myocardial infarction models; (c) echocardiographic cardiac phenotyping; (d) orthotopic cancer transplantation models.
• Experience with IACUC-compliant animal handling and surgery
• Strong publication records commensurate with experience
• Excellent organizational, communication, and leadership skills

Physical Demands

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

The hiring range is $64,000-$87,630, commensurate with education and experience.

This is an 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 has a term of 3 years 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.

To learn more about UVA and in the Charlottesville area, visit UVA Life and Embark CVA.

Application review will begin after July 15, 2026.

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

How to Apply

Please apply online, by searching for requisition number R0084320. 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.

Internal applicants: Search and apply for jobs on the UVA Internal Careers website. 

Reference checks will be completed by UVA’s third-party partner, SkillSurvey, during the final phase of the interview. Five references will be requested, with at least three responses required. 

For questions about the application process, please contact Jessica Russo, Senior Recruiter, at [email protected].

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.