Lab Specialist

Position Summary & General Responsibilities:

The primary objective of this position is to further the research conducted in the Department of Human & Molecular Genetics. The technician will be working in the laboratory of a single faculty member to aid in the research goals of the faculty member. The general responsibilities of this entry level position is to perform molecular biological and immunological experiments supporting research under the supervision of faculty member, to maintain mouse colonies (breeding, genotyping, surgery etc.), and to produce experimental reagents (cells, proteins, or viruses) for the laboratory as a whole.

1. Research and experimentation Performance of general cell and molecular biology and biochemical laboratory techniques, such as tissue culture, Western blotting, immunoistochemistry, PCR, transfection, FACS analysis, cloning, mice handling, etc. Prior lab experience is preferred.

2. Lab Maintenance General laboratory maintenance including ordering chemicals and maintaining accurate and detailed records; breed, genotype, and maintain transgenic mice, maintaining records of isotope use and disposals, chemical waste disposal, dishwashing and use of autoclave, etc.

3. Training Training students and others on lab techniques and procedures.

4. Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Hiring Standards:

Detail oriented, highly organized, some experience with standard biological/chemical laboratory practices, good communication and receptive language skills, ability to multitask and to work in a diverse environment is required.

Preferred Hiring Standards:

Bachelor’s degree in the biosciences. Priority will be given to individuals with demonstrated experience with one or more of the following: previous laboratory experience in general cell and molecular biology and biochemical laboratory techniques, including cell culture, DNA/protein quantitation, PCR, immunoblotting, and mice handling is preferred.

ORP Eligible: No

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. All full-time university staff are eligible for VCU’s generous benefits package that includes: competitive health benefits, paid annual and holiday leave, retirement planning and savings options, tax-deferred annuity and cash match programs, Virginia Retirement System (VRS), professional development & certifications, tuition waiver, parental leave, caregiving leave and community service leave. Learn more about VCU’s benefits here: https://hr.vcu.edu/careers-at-vcu/why-work-at-vcu/

Virginia Commonwealth University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action university providing access to education and employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, political affiliation, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or disability.

The School of Medicine continuously strives for our workplace and learning environment to reflect the demographic and social milieu of the communities we serve. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.

This is a restricted position with no set end date and continued employment is dependent upon project need, availability of funding, and performance.