Research Scientist, The Beirne B. Carter Immunology Center

The Beirne Carter Center for Immunology Research (CIC) was established to expand basic, translational, and clinical research in Immunology. It is a vibrant, collaborative community of Immunologist studying immune mechanisms in a variety of contexts.

Position Summary

A position is available at the Beirne Carter Center for Immunology Research (CIC), at the University of Virginia in the research group of Dr. Coleen McNamara to study the role of B cells in atherosclerosis. We have shown that B1 B cells in mice and marginal zone B cells in humans produce atheroprotective IgM, and that B2 cell-derived IgE to alpha gal is linked to human CAD. We are now delving into key cellular and molecular mechanisms regulating these events with an eye to developing novel preventative therapies for cardiovascular diseases. We utilize novel murine models and techniques and translate finding using our large cohort of human subjects with advanced imaging of coronary artery plaque volume and features of plaque instability.

As we are now seeking a deeper understanding of the fundamental mechanisms involved, we are looking for a motivated, creative research scientist to join our group to help move discovery and translation to therapy forward. Project involve human and mouse B cell and other immune cell analysis by flow cytometry, mass cytometry, BCR sequencing, adoptive transfer, etc. Our work I funded through P01s, R01s, Leducq Transatlantic Networks of Excellence and local funds.

As a Research Scientist you will drive your own innovative project in B cells and atherosclerosis and provide scientific and technical guidance on experimental design and interpretation to the bright, motivated graduate and undergraduate students in the laboratory. You will utilize novel mouse models, adoptive transfer studies, gene expression analysis, flow and mass cytometry, and biospecimen (plasma and PBMCs) from human subjects with and without CVD. In addition to driving research under guidance of assigned faculty, you will serve as a supervisor to other lab staff and serving in a mentoring role to students and/or trainees.

Furthermore, as a Research Scientist in the CIC, you will be expected to participate in a multiplicity of relevant lab projects. This includes but is not limited to contributing to overall lab maintenance and to assisting other lab personnel in completing their research projects, when your expertise is judged appropriate. You will also be expected to seek extramural support and to assist Dr. McNamara in her preparation of extramural grant applications, including to the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

Responsibilities

• Full-time research or scholarship at the University.

• Supervised by a senior scholar; and allows the appointee to publish the results of his/her research or scholarship.

• Strong time management, mentoring and communication skills

• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team

• Assist with maintenance and upkeep of laboratory, as applicable

• In addition to the above job responsibilities, other duties may be assigned.

Note: Research Scientist positions are for candidates who have obtained their PhD and have a MINIMUM of 3 years postdoctoral experience.

Minimum Qualifications

• Education: Requires a doctoral degree or master's degree with significant experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience in immunology, molecular and cellular biology, or a related field.

• Preference will be given to candidates with experience in immunology, molecular biology, cell biology, and/or human translational research.

• Preference will be given to candidates with a PhD, or equivalent degree in a relative scientific field of study

• Eligibility for NIH post-doctoral fellowship funding is helpful but not mandatory

• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

• Highly motivated to develop new research avenues.

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.

Salary Range

• Salary will be commensurate with education and experience.

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.

Application Timeline

Application review will begin after November 4, 2025.

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 R0077267. 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: Apply through your Workday profile by searching "Find Jobs."

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.

Contact

• For questions about the application process, please contact Jon Freeman, jf2sw@virginia.edu.