Neuroscience Research Assistant - Stereotaxic Surgery

Commonwealth of VA Careers; Roanoke (VA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Virginia Tech Fralin Biomedical Research Institute in Roanoke, VA is seeking a full-time Research Assistant to support neuroscience projects and oversee day-to-day laboratory operations. The role emphasizes hands-on lab work, mouse colony management, and training new members in experimental safety.

The ideal candidate has experience with stereotaxic surgery and mouse handling, strong organization, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team in a dynamic research environment.

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience with mouse handling and stereotaxic surgery.
• Strong organizational and communication abilities.
• Ability to work independently in a collaborative research setting.

Responsibilities

• Perform stereotaxic surgeries and behavioral assays in mice.
• Carry out molecular and cellular techniques including cloning, brain sectioning, perfusion, and immunohistochemistry.
• Conduct tissue culture and assist in viral vector preparation.
• Maintain detailed experimental records per IBC/IACUC protocols.
• Manage a large transgenic mouse breeding colony with genotyping and welfare checks.
• Train new lab members in experimental and safety procedures.

Skills

Mouse handling

Stereotaxic surgery

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Independent worker

Education

Biosciences or neuroscience degree

Tools

Molecular cloning

Brain sectioning

Immunohistochemistry

Viral vector preparation (AAV/Lentivirus)

Job description

Virginia Tech Fralin Biomedical Research Institute in Roanoke, VA is seeking a full-time Research Assistant to support neuroscience projects and oversee day-to-day laboratory operations. The role emphasizes hands-on lab work, mouse colony management, and training new members in experimental safety.

The ideal candidate has experience with stereotaxic surgery and mouse handling, strong organization, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team in a dynamic research environment.