The Department of Cell Biology, at the University of Virginia School of Medicine, is seeking a Lab Specialist Intermediate to work in Dr. Elias Spiliotis's laboratory (spiliotislab.org). Lab Specialist Intermediate employees perform complex laboratory and research tasks, working independently in developing, designing, and conducting experimental procedures. In addition, they oversee day-to-day lab operations and equipment maintenance, manage lab budgets, and can supervise support personnel.  

Job Responsibilities Include:

Specialize in lab research methods and equipment functions with a focus on protein biochemistry, and the purification of recombinant proteins using fast performance liquid chromatography (FPLC).

Design and execute molecular cloning projects, and the purification of DNA constructs

Perform vitro reconstitution assays with cytoskeletal polymers (actin, microtubules) using total internal reflection fluorescence (TIRF) microscopy 

Perform biochemical assays that test for protein interactions and post-translational modifications of proteins

Prepare materials and reagents that are commonly shared by the lab for routine experiments

Perform cell biological experiments using microscopy on a need basis

Acquire and analyze data, and interpret outcomes

Supervise, train and assist lab members in lab techniques and procedures as needed

Oversee day-to-day lab activities and operations including lab purchases and budgets.

Oversee the maintenance of lab digital databases and inventories

Oversee the operation and maintenance of basic lab equipment and train users in the operation of equipment of commonly shared equipment such as high and ultra speed centrifuges.

May act as a liaison to other labs and research projects.

Participate in lab meetings.

Participate in the writing of grant research proposals and publications, and presentation of data at research conferences. 

Minimum Requirements

Education: Bachelor's degree required.

Experience: 3+ years of relevant experience.

Physical Demands: 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 finer finger manipulation.

Salary Range: The anticipated salary is $55,000, commensurate with education and experience.

Exemption Status: This is an exempt-level, benefited position. Learn more about UVA benefits.

Funding Details: This position has a term limit of July 1, 2027 after which continued employment will depend on department need and funding.

Work Arrangement: This position is based in Charlottesville, VA, and must be performed fully on-site.

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

Application Timeline: Application review will begin after [DATE].

Background Check: Background checks will be conducted on all new hires prior to employment.

Visa Sponsorship: This position will not consider candidates who require immigration sponsorship now or in the future.

How to Apply: Please apply online, by searching for requisition number R0080272. 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 Check Process: 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. 

Department Contact: For questions about the position, please contact Dr. Elias Spiliotis.

Recruiter Contact: For questions about the application process, please contact Margaret Weeks.

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.