Research Scientist or Research Associate in Chemical Biology Immunology

Research Scientist or Postdoctoral Research Associate in Chemical Biology for Immunology

The Pompano Laboratory at the University of Virginia welcomes applications for a new colleague to join our team in either a Research Scientist or Postdoctoral Research Associate role. This position focuses on projects that feature chemical biology, bioanalytical chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology, and/or immunology. Potential projects include developing methods for spatially resolved protein detection in live tissues, advancing ex vivo lymphoid culture models, and testing drugs and immunotherapies in murine and human lymph node models.

Depending on the interests of the candidate, there is the potential for entrepreneurial development of the protein detection system.

New lab members join a vibrant intellectual community at UVA, participate in seminars and research-in-progress talks, and write impactful scientific papers. Postdoctoral scholars and Research Scientists contribute to grant writing, mentoring, and lab management. All lab members maintain detailed scientific records and help keep laboratory safety regulations.

Our laboratory develops bioanalytical methods, ex vivo culture systems, and organs-on-chip to study events that lead to the immune response. We work cross‑affiliated with the Departments of Chemistry and Biomedical Engineering, the Carter Immunology Center, and UVA Cancer Center. We value diverse perspectives and cultivate an inclusive and collegial environment.

• To be considered for a Postdoctoral Research Associate, completion of a Ph.D. in a related discipline is required. Eligible fields include Biochemistry, Immunology, Chemistry, Biomedical Engineering, or other related fields.
• To be considered for a Research Scientist, a Master’s degree with 5+ years of related experience or a Ph.D. with 3+ years of post‑Ph.D. experience in a related field is required.

• Ability to clearly explain the goals and impact of your prior research in written and verbal communication.
• Curiosity to learn new techniques and skills.
• Demonstrated ability to bring a project to completion.
• Ability to collaborate with team members of different backgrounds.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and advance multiple projects simultaneously.
• A dedication to quality, partnership, mutual respect, and safety.

• Experience with peptide or protein biochemistry and bioconjugation chemistry.
• Chemical biology methods, such as design of molecular probes, binders, linkers, or biorthogonal chemistry.
• Immunoassays or other detail‑oriented bioassays.
• Molecular biology methods such as PCR, RNAseq, Western blots, protein expression, etc.
• Bioanalytical assay development and validation.
• Aseptic mammalian tissue culture and cell‑based assays.
• Multi‑color fluorescence microscopy or live fluorescence imaging.
• Multi‑color flow cytometry, including panel design and data analysis.
• Spatial biology methods.
• Experience studying adaptive immunity, e.g., in the context of vaccine development, cancer immunity, neuroimmunity, or autoimmunity.

Apply online at (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). Please submit the following as a single combined PDF in the “Resume” field. The cover letter is mandatory.

• 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 references. Listing references represents permission to contact them unless you specify otherwise in your cover letter.

Final date to receive applications:
Review of applications will begin on March 1, 2025 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 is expected to be renewed for up to two additional one‑year terms (Postdoctoral Research Associates) or longer term (Research Scientist), contingent upon available funding and satisfactory performance.

For questions regarding this position, please contact Prof. Rebecca Pompano, Ph.D.,  questions about the application process, please contact Rich Haverstrom, Faculty Search Advisor, at rkh6j.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.  to read more about UVA’s commitment to non‑discrimination and equal opportunity employment.