Post Doc Research Associate

University of Virginia

University of Virginia

Charlottesville, VA, USA

Posted on Apr 23, 2026

The lab of Lu Gan (Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics and Center for Membrane and Cell Physiology, University of Virginia) is seeking a postdoctoral research associate. The Gan lab is interested eukaryotic chromatin organization, and how chromatin structural states regulate transcription in both healthy and pathological states.

Our lab focuses on the use of cellular models to study the 3-D arrangement of nucleosomes (the repeating unit of chromosomes) in their physiological context because the precise chromatin fold and nucleosome packing structures are predicted to dictate access to transcription factors, polymerases, and RNA-processing factors. Accordingly, we use cryo-electron tomography of cells as a key tool.

The successful candidate will lead up to two projects, coordinate with collaborators, and take ownership of manuscript writing, figure preparation, and postdoctoral fellowship applications. They will publicize the lab’s work at conferences and contribute to the lab’s collaborative and mutually supportive culture.

Salary will be commensurate with experience and aligned to current NIH guidelines. Fringe benefits will be provided in accordance with University of Virginia Human Resources policies.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

  • Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree in a relevant field.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Official receipt of a Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree within nine (9) months of the start date of the appointment.

  • At least one accepted, first-author, peer-reviewed publication prior to the start date of the appointment.

  • Documented experience in at least one the following areas: cryo-electron tomography of cells, CRISPR gene editing of mammalian systems, single-cell genomics, advance light microscopy of mammalian cells or tissues.

  • Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects concurrently and meet deadlines.

  • Independence, motivation, and intellectual ownership to lead a research project, including the possibility to mentor junior lab members.

  • Excellent communications (writing and oral) in English.

TO APPLY

Applicants please apply HERE. Internal applicants may search and apply for jobs on the UVA Internal Careers website.

Complete a candidate profile online; attach a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three references. Incomplete applications will not be given consideration.

Department Contact: For questions about the position, please contact Jon Stafford

Recruiter Contact: For questions about the application process, please contact Eric Allen.

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 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.