J-1 Visa Post Doctoral Fellow Jobs
Post Doctoral Fellow positions in the U.S. are typically supported through the J-1 Research Scholar or Short-Term Scholar program category, with sponsorship issued by a State Department-designated organization such as a university or research institute. Host institutions initiate the process, but the DS-2019 comes from the designated sponsor.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) School of Medicine is a premier academic medical center located in the heart of Richmond. Accounting for almost half of VCU’s sponsored research, the School of Medicine is internationally recognized for patient care and education. Virginia Commonwealth University is an equal opportunity employer.
Unit: School Of Medicine
Department: Cellular, Molecular, and Genetic Medicine
Department Summary: The Department of Cellular, Molecular and Genetic Medicine is dedicated to unraveling the fundamental biology that supports health and drives disease. Our faculty, trainees and students tackle some of the most pressing challenges in biomedical science, from the molecular and genetic roots of disease to the complexities of whole-body physiology.
Our foundational studies are driving the frontiers of scientific discovery, pushing the boundaries of what we understand about biology, disease and the human body. From our labs in downtown Richmond to research collaborations around the world, our work is generating new knowledge, influencing the direction of biological science and redefining what is possible in biomedical research.
We are proud to be a community of passionate educators and mentors, deeply committed to empowering the next generation of scientists and leaders. With alumni enjoying successful careers across a broad spectrum of industries, our rigorous training programs offer students a transformative education that drives innovation today and creates lasting impact for tomorrow.
Position Summary
A postdoctoral position is immediately available in the laboratory of Dr. Zheng Fu in the Department of Cellular, Molecular, and Genetic Medicine and the Institute of Molecular Medicine at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), School of Medicine. The main research focus in Dr. Fu’s laboratory is to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of cell cycle control and genomic stability maintenance. The aim is to understand how deregulation of these physiological processes contributes to carcinogenesis and ultimately apply the findings to the development of novel, improved, and targeted cancer therapies.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Conduct research for an NIH-funded project as well as other ongoing projects in the laboratory
- Design and perform experiments using appropriate molecular, cellular, and/or animal model approaches
- Analyze and interpret experimental data and maintain accurate and well-organized research records
- Generate preliminary data to support the development of new grant applications
- Contribute to the preparation of manuscripts for publication, including drafting figures, writing sections of manuscripts, and responding to reviewer comments
- Present research findings at laboratory meetings, seminars, and scientific conferences
- Collaborate with other members of the research team and contribute to a productive and collegial laboratory environment
- Assist in mentoring students, and other trainees when appropriate
- Stay current with relevant scientific literature and contribute ideas for new research directions
- 100% work effort
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Dr. Fu’s laboratory is seeking a highly qualified and dedicated individual with a strong commitment to research excellence. The successful candidate should hold a PhD or MD in molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, molecular genetics, or a related field. The candidates must also have strong organizational, written, and verbal communication skills in English. Demonstrated ability to work in and foster an environment of respect, professionalism and civility with a population of faculty, staff, and students from all backgrounds and experiences, or a commitment to do so as a Post-Doctoral Fellow at VCU.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
The successful candidate has experience in areas such as protein post-translational modifications, transcriptional regulation, animal models, and experimental therapeutics.
COMPENSATION
- Salary Range: Starting at $63,480
The position offers outstanding training opportunities and the chance to work in a highly supportive and collaborative environment. VCU is a public research university founded in 1838 that combines a rich history with the innovation and resources of a major research institution. The VCU Medical Center and Health System is among the largest and most comprehensive academic medical centers on the East Coast, and the VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is one of the nation’s leading cancer research centers dedicated to advancing cancer discovery, prevention, and treatment. A competitive salary and an excellent benefits package will be provided.
BENEFITS
All VCU employee types are eligible for a wide array of benefits to support you during your employment at VCU. Consult the benefits website for information on benefits eligibility according to employee type.
FLSA Exemption Status: Exempt
Hours per Week: 40
ORP Eligible: Yes
Flexible Work Arrangement: Fully Onsite
CONTACT INFORMATION
- Contact Email: SOMHR@vcuhealth.org
INTRODUCTION
Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) School of Medicine is a premier academic medical center located in the heart of Richmond. Accounting for almost half of VCU’s sponsored research, the School of Medicine is internationally recognized for patient care and education. Virginia Commonwealth University is an equal opportunity employer.
Unit: School Of Medicine
Department: Cellular, Molecular, and Genetic Medicine
Department Summary: The Department of Cellular, Molecular and Genetic Medicine is dedicated to unraveling the fundamental biology that supports health and drives disease. Our faculty, trainees and students tackle some of the most pressing challenges in biomedical science, from the molecular and genetic roots of disease to the complexities of whole-body physiology.
Our foundational studies are driving the frontiers of scientific discovery, pushing the boundaries of what we understand about biology, disease and the human body. From our labs in downtown Richmond to research collaborations around the world, our work is generating new knowledge, influencing the direction of biological science and redefining what is possible in biomedical research.
We are proud to be a community of passionate educators and mentors, deeply committed to empowering the next generation of scientists and leaders. With alumni enjoying successful careers across a broad spectrum of industries, our rigorous training programs offer students a transformative education that drives innovation today and creates lasting impact for tomorrow.
Position Summary
A postdoctoral position is immediately available in the laboratory of Dr. Zheng Fu in the Department of Cellular, Molecular, and Genetic Medicine and the Institute of Molecular Medicine at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), School of Medicine. The main research focus in Dr. Fu’s laboratory is to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of cell cycle control and genomic stability maintenance. The aim is to understand how deregulation of these physiological processes contributes to carcinogenesis and ultimately apply the findings to the development of novel, improved, and targeted cancer therapies.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Conduct research for an NIH-funded project as well as other ongoing projects in the laboratory
- Design and perform experiments using appropriate molecular, cellular, and/or animal model approaches
- Analyze and interpret experimental data and maintain accurate and well-organized research records
- Generate preliminary data to support the development of new grant applications
- Contribute to the preparation of manuscripts for publication, including drafting figures, writing sections of manuscripts, and responding to reviewer comments
- Present research findings at laboratory meetings, seminars, and scientific conferences
- Collaborate with other members of the research team and contribute to a productive and collegial laboratory environment
- Assist in mentoring students, and other trainees when appropriate
- Stay current with relevant scientific literature and contribute ideas for new research directions
- 100% work effort
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Dr. Fu’s laboratory is seeking a highly qualified and dedicated individual with a strong commitment to research excellence. The successful candidate should hold a PhD or MD in molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, molecular genetics, or a related field. The candidates must also have strong organizational, written, and verbal communication skills in English. Demonstrated ability to work in and foster an environment of respect, professionalism and civility with a population of faculty, staff, and students from all backgrounds and experiences, or a commitment to do so as a Post-Doctoral Fellow at VCU.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
The successful candidate has experience in areas such as protein post-translational modifications, transcriptional regulation, animal models, and experimental therapeutics.
COMPENSATION
- Salary Range: Starting at $63,480
The position offers outstanding training opportunities and the chance to work in a highly supportive and collaborative environment. VCU is a public research university founded in 1838 that combines a rich history with the innovation and resources of a major research institution. The VCU Medical Center and Health System is among the largest and most comprehensive academic medical centers on the East Coast, and the VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is one of the nation’s leading cancer research centers dedicated to advancing cancer discovery, prevention, and treatment. A competitive salary and an excellent benefits package will be provided.
BENEFITS
All VCU employee types are eligible for a wide array of benefits to support you during your employment at VCU. Consult the benefits website for information on benefits eligibility according to employee type.
FLSA Exemption Status: Exempt
Hours per Week: 40
ORP Eligible: Yes
Flexible Work Arrangement: Fully Onsite
CONTACT INFORMATION
- Contact Email: SOMHR@vcuhealth.org
See all 263+ Post Doctoral Fellow jobs
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding J-1 Visa Sponsorship in Post Doctoral Fellow
Verify your DS-2019 eligibility before applying
Research Scholar sponsorship requires a relevant degree and a formal research agenda. Confirm your host institution has an active relationship with a State Department-designated sponsor before accepting any offer, or the DS-2019 cannot be issued.
Target universities with established sponsored research programs
Departments running federally funded grants through NIH, NSF, or DOE routinely host J-1 Research Scholars. Search for principal investigators advertising postdoctoral openings in disciplines matching your terminal degree to find host environments already fluent in J-1 compliance.
Find J-1-aligned postdoctoral roles on Migrate Mate
Use Migrate Mate to filter U.S. employer listings by roles that align with J-1 Research Scholar eligibility. It surfaces host institutions actively seeking postdoctoral researchers, saving you from cold-applying to departments with no existing sponsorship infrastructure.
Clarify the two-year home residency requirement early
If your funding source is your home government or a U.S. government agency, the two-year home residency requirement under INA 212(e) likely applies. Raise this with the designated sponsor before signing your offer letter, since it affects any future H-1B or green card path.
Align your research plan with the DS-2019 training objectives
The designated sponsor issues your DS-2019 based on an approved program description. Your research plan submitted to the sponsor must map directly to your proposed activities at the host institution, or the sponsor may request revisions before issuing documents.
Track your SEVIS record throughout the postdoc term
Your J-1 status is tied to active SEVIS registration maintained by the designated sponsor. If your postdoc extends beyond the original DS-2019 end date, initiate the extension request with your responsible officer at least 30 days before expiration to avoid a status gap.
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Find Post Doctoral Fellow JobsPost Doctoral Fellow J-1 Visa: Frequently Asked Questions
Which J-1 program category applies to Post Doctoral Fellows?
Most Post Doctoral Fellows enter on the J-1 Research Scholar category, which is designed for experienced researchers conducting study or research at U.S. host institutions. If your postdoc is shorter than six months and involves observation rather than independent research, the Short-Term Scholar category may apply instead. Your designated sponsor determines which category fits based on your proposed activities.
Who actually issues J-1 sponsorship for a postdoctoral position?
The hiring university or research institute is your host, not your visa sponsor. J-1 sponsorship comes from a State Department-designated organization, which may be the university itself acting as its own designated sponsor, or a third-party organization the host institution works with. That designated sponsor issues the DS-2019 form, which is required to apply for your J-1 visa stamp.
How do I find Post Doctoral Fellow roles where the host institution already has J-1 infrastructure in place?
Use Migrate Mate to search for postdoctoral openings at U.S. institutions that actively support J-1 Research Scholar placements. Many departments list positions without explicitly advertising J-1 compatibility, so focusing on research universities with strong federal grant portfolios and contacting the international office before accepting an offer helps confirm sponsor readiness.
Does the two-year home residency requirement affect all J-1 Post Doctoral Fellows?
Not all, but many. The two-year home residency requirement under INA 212(e) applies when your postdoc is funded by your home government, a U.S. government agency, or if your home country designated your field as one requiring your skills. If it applies, you must return home for two years before switching to H-1B or adjusting status to permanent residence, unless you obtain a waiver.
Can a Post Doctoral Fellow on J-1 status switch to H-1B status while still in the U.S.?
Yes, if the two-year home residency requirement does not apply or has been waived. If exempt, your host institution can file an H-1B petition on your behalf. USCIS counts postdoctoral roles at nonprofit research organizations and universities as cap-exempt, meaning the H-1B cap and lottery do not apply, and the petition can be filed at any time of year.
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