Research Assistant, Charlton Lab (Pediatrics) (Staff Wage)

University of Virginia; Charlottesville (VA); On-site; USD 25,000 - 39,000; Part time

Job summary

The University of Virginia's Charlton Lab in Charlottesville is seeking a laboratory research technician with strong clinical research and interpersonal skills. The role offers opportunities to expand expertise in histology, RT-PCR, imaging, and additional laboratory methods while mentoring trainees across experience levels.

The position emphasizes collaboration, meticulous documentation, and clear communication of findings, with focus on supporting clinical and translational research under

Qualifications

• Associate's degree or equivalent combination of experience/education allowed.
• 2+ years of lab experience preferred.
• No licensure required; visa sponsorship not offered.

Responsibilities

• Support clinical and translational research activities including sample collection, preparation, data collection, and analysis.
• Learn and apply histology, RT-PCR, imaging, and other lab techniques under supervision.
• Conduct experiments and analyses in lab settings to address biological and medical questions.
• Collaborate with scientists and trainees to advance knowledge and innovation.
• Provide mentorship and guidance to students and junior trainees in the lab.
• Maintain accurate documentation, records, and organization of experimental data.
• Communicate findings clearly, providing explanations or interpretations as needed.

Skills

Interpersonal communication

Documentation

Data collection & analysis

Collaboration

Mentoring trainees

Education

Associates degree or equivalent experience

Tools

RT-PCR

Histology

Imaging

Job description

The Department of Pediatrics Charlton Lab is seeking a highly motivated laboratory research technician with strong clinical research and interpersonal skills who is eager to expand their expertise into histology, RT-PCR, imaging, and other laboratory methods. The ideal candidate will demonstrate excellent interpersonal skills, organizational ability, and strong documentation practices. A key part of this role involves working collaboratively with and mentoring trainees at various levels of research experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Support clinical and translational research activities, including sample collection and preparation, data collection, and analysis.
• Learn and apply histology, RT-PCR, imaging, and other laboratory techniques under supervision.
• Conduct experiments and analyses in laboratory settings to investigate scientific questions relevant to biology and medicine.
• Collaborate with scientists and trainees to advance knowledge and innovation.
• Provide mentorship and guidance to students and junior trainees in the laboratory.
• Maintain accurate documentation, records, and organization of experimental data.
• Communicate findings and information clearly, requiring explanation or interpretation as needed.

Role Characteristics

• Individual contributor providing organizational research support.
• Majority of time spent on delivery of research support services under moderate supervision.
• Work is routine, though occasional interpretation or adjustment to procedures may be required.
• Fully competent and productive in routine research tasks, with opportunities to grow through additional training and experience.

Minimum Requirements

Education: Associate's degree required; may accept equivalent combination of experience, education, certification in lieu of degree.

Experience: 2+ years of lab experience which may include student experience.

Licensure: None.

The department will not be sponsoring visas for this position.

This is a wage position which is not eligible for leave or other benefits and is limited to 1500 hours of work in a year. For more information, refer to the Wage Employment link: http://uvapolicy.virginia.edu/policy/HRM-029.

The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment. This position will also require an Education Verification.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.