Lab Technician/Specialist Varying Levels - Brandebura Lab

Virginia; Charlottesville (VA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

The Brandebura lab at the University of Virginia is seeking a Laboratory and Research Technician to assist in studies on astrocyte dysfunction related to neurodevelopmental disorders. Responsibilities include animal colony management, lab inventory, experimental work, and collaboration with team members. Ideal candidates should have relevant educational backgrounds and lab experience. This is a benefitted position based in Charlottesville, VA.

Qualifications

• 2 years lab experience or Associate's degree required.
• Bachelor's degree with 4 years lab experience for Lab Specialist.

Responsibilities

• Manage animal colony and perform genotyping.
• Collect experimental data and analyze findings.
• Optimize lab protocols and maintain records.

Skills

Data Analysis

Collaboration

Animal Handling

Education

Associate’s degree

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft PowerPoint

Statistical Software

Job description

The Brandebura lab, at the University of Virginia School of Medicine Department of Neuroscience, seeks candidates for Laboratory and Research Technician 2, Lab Specialist, Lab Specialist Intermediate, or Lab Specialist Senior. The lab studies astrocyte dysfunction in neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders such as Down Syndrome and Alzheimer’s Disease. Our focus is on targeting astrocytes and their signaling to other glial cells and vasculature to improve neuroinflammation, blood-brain barrier, and synapse function. We utilize mouse models and primary cell cultures to investigate biological mechanisms.

The lab is newly established, and the candidate will work closely with the principal investigator to set up the lab. Responsibilities include:

1. Animal colony management: Manage the animal colony, perform genotyping, and maintain detailed records of mouse census. Collaborate with Dr. Brandebura to update animal and biosafety protocols.
2. Lab inventory and supplies: Create inventories of reagents, stock the lab, order supplies, and prepare solutions and buffers.
3. Experimental work and data analysis: Collect experimental data, including microscopy of brain slices, cell culture experiments, and behavioral tests on mice. Prior experience with mouse handling is preferred but not required; willingness to work with mice is essential. Analyze data and present findings in lab meetings. Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint is required; experience with statistical software is a plus.
4. Protocol optimization and maintenance: Under supervision, optimize and archive lab protocols and maintain a detailed lab notebook for reproducibility.
5. Collaboration and training: Work as part of a team, foster an inclusive environment, and train new lab members on protocols.

Minimum Requirements

1. Laboratory and Research Technician 2: Associate’s degree, at least 2 years of lab experience (including student experience), or a bachelor's degree in a related science field. No licensure required.
2. Lab Specialist: Bachelor's degree, 2 years of experience (or 4 years lab experience if without degree), no licensure required.
3. Lab Specialist Intermediate: Bachelor's degree, 4 years of experience, or Master's degree with equivalent experience. 8 years of lab experience accepted in lieu of degree.
4. Lab Specialist Senior: Bachelor's degree, 6 years of experience, or 10 years of lab experience in lieu of degree or Master's plus 4 years experience.

Physical Demands

Extensive standing, squatting, keyboarding, fine motor animal procedures, and bench work are required.

This position remains open until filled. It is a benefitted, restricted position based on project needs, funding, and performance. Location: Charlottesville, VA. Background checks and health screens are required.

Application Process:

Apply via the UVA job board (search for R0071692). Submit a cover letter and CV in one document or merged PDF. Incomplete applications will not be considered. References will be requested through UVA’s Skill Survey. For questions, contact Jon Freeman at [e-mail]. For more about UVA and Charlottesville, visit here and here. UVA is an equal opportunity employer, encouraging applications from veterans and individuals with disabilities.