Postdoctoral Research Associate, Department of Microbiology

The Cliffe lab in the UVA School of Medicine Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Cancer Biology is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to work on the mechanisms of Herpes Simplex Virus latent infection in neurons. Specifically, the candidate will investigate the epigenetic regulation of HSV latency and reactivation. Multiple projects are available, based on strong preliminary data, and are funded by NIH grants. The projects will inform on how the virus establishes latent infection with the capacity to undergo reactivation, in addition to using the virus to inform on epigenetic processes in neurons.

More details about the Cliffe lab can be found here https://mic.med.virginia.edu/cliffe/

The ideal candidates will have a PhD with experience in relevant areas of biology, first-author publication(s), and the ability to work well in a highly interactive, creative, and collaborative environment.

Postdoctoral employment is temporary and is normally limited to an individual who has been awarded a Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate within the previous five years and who will be involved in full-time research or scholarship at the University. Employment as a Postdoctoral Research Associate is viewed as training and is preparatory for a full-time academic or research career, is supervised by a senior scholar, and allows the appointee to publish the results of his/her research or scholarship during the training period.

Minimum Qualifications

• Doctoral degree

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong background in virology or molecular biology

• Ability to work in a collaborative environment

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 will be commensurate with education and experience.

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 is a 12-month appointment with the possibility of renewal contingent upon satisfactory performance and the availability of funding.

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

To learn more about UVA and the Charlottesville area, visit UVA Life and Embark CVA.

Application review will begin after May 10th 2026.

Background checks and pre-employment health screenings will be conducted on all new hires prior to employment.

How to Apply

Please apply online, by searching for requisition number R0083032. Complete an application with the following documents:

• Resume

• Cover letter summarizing your past experience, research interests and career goals

• Contact information for at least three letters of recommendation