The Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery is seeking a Lab Specialist Intermediate or Lab Specialist Senior to support the research efforts of Professor Steven Munger, Ph.D. The Munger lab is in the Aurbach Medical Research Building within the Fontaine Research Park.

Research in the laboratory, including NIH-supported studies, will combine human clinical studies with studies in model systems to understand the normal function, and disease-related dysfunction, of the senses of smell and taste. Smell and taste play critical roles in human health by protecting us from dangers, influencing our perception and liking of food, and influencing how we interact with the world. As demonstrated by the COVID-19 pandemic, loss of smell and taste can have profound consequences for affected individuals.

The lab's research environment will pair rigorous, cutting edge scientific research with a collaborative and supportive environment for individuals with varied backgrounds and with different career aspirations. Of particular interest are individuals with excellent communication and leadership skills, expertise in neuroanatomical, molecular biological, psychophysical and/or statistical techniques, and an enthusiasm for working with students, residents, or other trainees.

Responsibilities

• Assist faculty researchers and act independently in the design of research projects, the development of methods and procedures, the preparation of research proposals, and the writing of research findings. Oversee day-to-day operations of projects.
• May supervise research activities and support personnel.
• Assist in formulating and implementing the short- and long-range goals for the operation of the lab. Project future needs and formulate strategies consistent with projections.
• May develop and implement lab policies and procedures. Manage and coordinate operational policies and procedures. Coordinate with research staff on issues which impact lab functions.
• May act as liaison to other departments, divisions or organizations.
• Develop, design, and conduct one or more small or moderately complex research projects or experiments in line with plan. Coordinate data collection and screening and verify the data. Review progress and evaluate results.
• Develop protocols and criteria, determine interview procedures, and approve protocols.
• Conduct analyses of data and interpret and implement research methodology based on outcomes of analyses.
• Co-author publications and may co-present results with Principal Investigator at meetings or conferences.
• Provide guidance as requested regarding hiring and training for technical personnel. Supervise, train and instruct residents, interns, students or other staff in lab techniques and procedures.
• In addition to the above job responsibilities, other duties may be assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Laboratory Research Professional 2

Education: Bachelor's degree required

Experience: 3+ years of relevant experience

Laboratory Research Professional 3

Education: Bachelor's degree required

Experience: 5+ years of relevant experience required

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.

Anticipated Start Date: April 2026

Position Type & Work Location

• 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 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.

The position will remain open until filled.

Additional Requirements

• Background checks and pre-employment health screenings will be conducted on all new hires prior to employment.
• 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 R0080848. Complete an application with the following documents:

• Resume
• Cover Letter - should include your interest in the position and how your relevant experience pertains to this position.

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 may 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 Karon Harrington, fak3ph@virginia.edu.

Job Profile

J1886 - Laboratory Research Professional 3

Career Stream and Level

Professional-P3

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.