Research Assistant

The Purcell Lab at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech is seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant. 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 population. Experience working in a research laboratory is helpful but not mandatory. 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. This position also requires some basic data analysis and presentation. Some familiarity with the above techniques is a plus. Strong intrapersonal skills and desire and ability to work with different participants and patients populations is a must. There is opportunity for the candidate to participate in research publication and attendance at national scientific conferences if able and appropriate. The successful applicant will also be expected to participate in lab meetings, analyze data, and assist in the preparation of figures for peer-reviewed publication and presentations. The successful candidate should also be detail oriented and enjoy a diverse working environment.

• Prior research-related experience.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, organizational and team skills
• Capable of working independently and as part of a team
• Ability to organize and analyze experimental data

• Degree or coursework in biology, neuroscience, psychology, or related field.
• Demonstrated laboratory research experience in a neuroscience or molecular biology laboratory.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Desire to succeed in a fast-paced research environment with multiple duties

3

Restricted

Commensurate

4/03/2024

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.