Research Technician

The laboratory of Dr. Ryunosuke Amo at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at VTC is seeking a Research Technician to support general laboratory operations, collect data for research projects investigating neurocircuit mechanisms of learning and decision-making, with a focus on dopamine neural coding and its dysfunction. The research technician will be responsible for working with experimental animals (primarily mice and possibly zebrafish), animal husbandry, surgeries, building experimental rigs, conducting behavioral tasks, performing histological analysis, and monitoring brain activity using electrical and optical approaches. Additionally, the technician will operate and maintain equipment used for experiments. The successful candidate should be detail oriented, maintain accurate records of experimental results, and be highly motivated to learn and contribute to neuroscience research aimed at elucidating the neurocircuit mechanism of learning and decision making and their dysfunction. They should also be flexible and enjoy a fast-paced research environment.

• Must be an effective communicator with excellent interpersonal skills
• Must have basic lab experience including dilutions, weighing chemicals, and understand proper chemical handling
• Must be able to work independently and manage time effectively
• Must be detail oriented
• Must be comfortable with computer software
• Must be able to sit or stand a lab bench for extended periods of time
• Demonstrated interpersonal, analytical and problem solving skills with strong attention to detail
• Although extensive prior experience with rodents is not required, candidate must be comfortable learning how to handle rodents and perform surgeries
• Must have a demonstrated ability to interact respectfully and comfortably with all individuals

• Coursework or training in Biology, Bioengineering, Neuroscience or a related field
• General laboratory experience
• Coding experience
• Interest in advancing neuroscience through dedicated repeat-experiments
• Strong communication, interpersonal, organizational and team skills.
• Demonstrated ability to follow instructions
• Previous research experience

3

Non-Exempt: Eligible for overtime

Restricted

Commensurate

40

4/30/2025

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

About Virginia Tech

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