Assistant Professor of Chemistry

The University of Virginia’s Department of Chemistry, a leading department for interdisciplinary collaboration, invites applications for a tenure-track position in the field of chemistry, with a focus on neuroscience or the brain. The position, expected to begin August 10, 2026, is part of the University of Virginia’s Grand Challenge Research Initiatives with a focus on Brain and Neuroscience. In this role, the Assistant Professor will establish a dynamic, independently-funded research program in chemistry while mentoring students and contributing to graduate and undergraduate educational missions and departmental culture. Areas that would complement current expertise in the Chemistry department may include, but are not limited to, analytical chemistry, biophysical chemistry, medicinal chemistry, or chemical biology. The proposed research must be at the interface of Chemistry and Neuroscience.

This new faculty member will join a vibrant, interdisciplinary research community in the Department of Chemistry. The Chemistry Department offers a collegial and supportive environment, and many opportunities for collaboration within and between the School of Arts & Sciences, the School of Medicine and the new Paul and Diane Manning Institute of Biotechnology. The Department of Chemistry is within walking distance of a world-class medical school, as well as UVA’s renowned business, commerce, public policy and data science schools, affording excellent opportunities for collaboration on scientific research, entrepreneurial ventures and science-driven issue advocacy. UVA has and continues to invest heavily in its STEM departments, including a recent $100 million renovation of the Chemistry building.

This position is part of a major Grand Challenges research investment of over $50M in Brain and Neuroscience. The University of Virginia's 2030 plan recognizes the Brain and Neuroscience as a major societal challenge and an opportunity for multidisciplinary work that draws on our existing strengths. In partnership, the Provost and the deans of various schools are making multiple coordinated faculty recruitments to strengthen the research community focusing on Brain and Neuroscience across the University. Recruits will receive support from the Provost and from their school and will participate in the Brain and Neuroscience Initiative.

More about us: UVA, a top-five public university in the U.S., is an R1 Carnegie institution and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is located in historic Charlottesville, a scenic, culturally vibrant small city that frequently ranks among America’s best places to live. The local community offers a great quality of life, diverse neighborhoods, excellent schools, and many venues for dining, arts, shopping, and entertainment, as well as endless sports and outdoor recreation opportunities. The Chemistry department is home to a community of approximately 29 tenured/tenure-track faculty, 7 general faculty, 20 excellent staff members, and ~ 160 graduate students and postdoctoral scholars.

Qualifications

To meet the minimum qualifications for this position, candidates must hold a Ph.D. The successful candidate will have a Ph.D. in chemistry or a related field at the time of appointment, a record of excellence in scientific research, and a commitment to teaching at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Candidates should have a well-documented track record of chemistry efforts as demonstrated through their publication record.

Application Instructions

Candidates should apply via Interfolio. Please attach the following required documents to your application:

1. Cover letter that includes (1) a summary of your most significant research accomplishments, (2) potential collaborations/projects at UVa (3) your teaching interests and experience, and (4) demonstrated experience relevant to the University’s ambition to cultivate the most vibrant community in higher education in order to prepare students to be leaders in a diverse and globally connected world. (2 pages)

2. CV that includes contact information for three references.

3. A research statement that includes your vision for your research program at the university (4 single-spaced pages).

4. A statement on teaching and scientific mentoring that details your experience and goals (≤ 2 pages). Some useful tips for writing an informative teaching statement can be found here, and additional resources, including a sample rubric are available here.

The university will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment.

Questions about the position should be directed to the search chair, Professor Marcos Pires, at mp7aa@virginia.edu

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

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

The University of Virginia offers confidential Dual Career Services to partners of incoming faculty candidates. To learn more, please visit dualcareer.virginia.edu