The Kulkarni lab in the Department of Cell Biology at the University of Virginia School of Medicine is seeking a Lab Specialist to conduct experiments modeling human diseases using frogs as a model organism. We utilize diverse techniques, including CRISPR/Cas9 and morpholino-based gene Knockout and knockdown, in vitro and natural fertilization, microdissections, microinjection, molecular cloning, in situ hybridization, tissue culture, immunofluorescence, protein immunoblotting, and various types of microscopy on live and fixed cells and embryos. The Lab Specialist will work closely with the PI and other lab members to complete tasks to support NIH-funded research and investigate the formation and function of cilia, which are essential for embryonic development and physiology.

Lab Specialists are also responsible for training other personnel, animal colony breeding and maintenance (as needed), genotyping, maintaining equipment, and assisting the PI with environmental health and safety compliance. Thus, the position requires frequent use of scientific literature and databases, appropriate data analysis including statistics, lab notebook and electronic data keeping, clear communication, and clear data presentation.

The position starts in June 2026.

Percent Effort

1. Independent research project (70-80%)

2. Animal care (15-20%)

3. Lab-related duties (5-10%).

Minimum Requirements:

• Education: Bachelor's degree.

• Experience: 1 year of research during an undergraduate degree.

Preferred Requirements:

• Education: Bachelor's degrees in biological sciences or related sciences.

• Experience: 1-2 years of experience in wet lab research in a related science. Preferred experience includes molecular biology, work with animals, especially frogs, cell or tissue culture, cell transfection, microinjection, protein isolation and immunoblotting techniques, protein biochemistry, and microscopy.

• The successful applicant will demonstrate a history of: 1) excellent work ethic and above-average productivity; 2) meticulous attention to detail; 3) flexible thinking and ability to learn new skills; 4) prior personal ownership of complex project(s); and 5) working both independently and collaboratively.

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 benchwork and animal procedures requiring finer finger manipulation.

Anticipated Hiring Range: $18 - $22/hour, commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Additional Details:

• This is a non-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.

• This position will not support visa sponsorship.

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

How to Apply:

Please apply online, by searching for requisition number R0081871. Complete an application with the following documents:

• Resume

• Cover Letter explaining your previous lab experience and goals (encouraged)

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 Speth at js9rk@virginia.edu.

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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.