Postdoctoral Associate

The Purcell Lab at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Associate. Led by Dr. Ryan Purcell, the lab aims to study the developmental neurobiology of psychiatric conditions.

The candidate must have excellent interpersonal skills and be comfortable working with a diverse group of colleagues. The lab requires the candidate to be comfortable with interactions with mice to maintain a successful operation of the research activities. Fundamental knowledge and an interest in molecular and cell biology is a necessity. Techniques we use include in vitro neural differentiation, gene expression manipulation, metabolic assays, and mouse breeding and behavior. Knowledge in basic computer skills, record keeping and experience with data collection is required.

The candidate is expected to have a strong record of publications in peer-reviewed journals and conference presentations. The successful applicant will operate equipment to carry out research protocols in-vivo and in-vitro. Assist in coordinating facility services, such as equipment maintenance records, quality control, environmental health and safety, as needed. They will also be responsible for preparing and utilizing chemical solutions in in-vitro experiments in a wet lab setting, maintain colonies of mouse models of human disease through husbandry and genotyping. The successful candidate should also be detail oriented and enjoy a diverse working environment.

• PhD in biology, neuroscience, genetics or related field. PhD must be awarded no more than four years prior to the effective date of appointment with a minimum of one year eligibility remaining.
• Proficiency in cell culture and/or molecular biology.
• Demonstrated organizational skills or experience with data management.
• Desire to succeed in a fast-paced research environment with multiple duties.
• Demonstrated attention to detail, organizational skills, and excellent communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively and collegially with lab members at varying career stages.
• Ability to maintain a high level of professionalism.

• Experience in one or more of the following research areas: neuroscience, biology, genetics.
• Demonstrated basic management skills, including managing lab research protocols and coordinating the training of lower-level researchers
• Experience with basic laboratory protocols including proper handling of mice behavior, molecular biology, data collection, and data management.
• Experience with data analysis software (R, Matlab, etc.)

Appointment Type

Restricted

Commensurate with experience, starting at $61,008

April 1, 2025

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

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including the Innovation Campus in Northern Virginia; the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke; sites in Newport News and Richmond; and numerous Extension offices and research centers. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $500 million in research annually.

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