Research Assistant

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

Job Description

The Shin Lab at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute (VTC, Virginia Tech Carilion) is seeking a full-time Research Assistant to support neuroscience projects and oversee day-to-day laboratory operations. This professional research position is an excellent opportunity for individuals with strong laboratory skills who enjoy working in a collaborative, fast‑paced environment. Lab Website: https://fbri.vtc.vt.edu/research/labs/shin.html

The successful candidate will play a central role in supporting research projects, managing the mouse colony, and serving as the “go‑to” person for lab trainees. We are particularly interested in candidates with hands‑on experience in stereotaxic surgery and mouse handling.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform stereotaxic surgeries and behavioral assays in mouse models.
• Carry out molecular and cellular techniques, including molecular cloning, brain sectioning, cardiac perfusion, and immunohistochemistry.
• Conduct tissue culture and assist in viral vector (AAV, Lentivirus) preparation.
• Maintain detailed, accurate experimental records in compliance with IBC and IACUC protocols.
• Contribute to research team meetings, problem‑solving, and data quality improvement.
• Manage a large transgenic mouse breeding colony: genotyping, welfare monitoring, and record‑keeping.
• Ensure the lab is well‑organized, compliant with regulations, and that protocols are up‑to‑date.
• Support and train new lab members in experimental and safety procedures.

Required Qualifications

• Proven experience with mouse handling and stereotaxic surgery.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a research team.
• Attention to detail and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Preferred Qualifications

• Degree or coursework in biosciences, neuroscience, biology, or a related field with substantial laboratory experience.
• Prior experience in an academic biomedical research setting.

Pay Band

3

Overtime Status

Non-Exempt: Eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

Commensurate with Experience

Hours per week

40

Review Date

9/5/2025

Additional Information

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 Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, 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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If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Brittany Shelton at [e-mail] during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.