Research Technician

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc.; Blacksburg (VA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

Virginia Tech is seeking a laboratory technician to independently oversee research activities in the Pickrell and Morton labs within the School of Neuroscience. The role includes maintaining stocks, databases, and inventory, and assisting researchers with projects.

The candidate will contribute to a range of techniques including molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, imaging, and behavior analyses, with training provided as needed.

Qualifications

• BS degree in biology, molecular biology, neuroscience or related field.
• At least 1 year of hands-on experience in molecular biology (including DNA and RNA handling); ability to independently perform PCR and qPCR
• Ability to manage time, organize data and keep accurate lab records
• Ability to efficiently use computer software
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• Good communication skills
• Curiosity and enthusiasm for science
• Willingness to work with mice to organize and maintain mouse colony

Responsibilities

• Oversee research activities within the laboratories and assist group members with their projects
• Maintain laboratory stocks, databases and inventory of supplies
• Organize the laboratory and ensure proper documentation and records

Skills

Time management

Data organization

Computer literacy

Teamwork

Communication skills

Curiosity and enthusiasm for science

Willingness to work with mice

Education

BS degree in biology, molecular biology, neuroscience or related field

Tools

PCR

qPCR

Job description

Job Description

The Pickrell laboratory in junction with Morton laboratory in the School of Neuroscience at Virginia Tech is looking for one responsible and well‑organized laboratory technician who can independently oversee research activities within the laboratories as well as assist group members with their projects. Additional responsibilities include the maintenance of laboratory stocks, databases and inventory of laboratory supplies as well as the general organization of the laboratory.

Our laboratories focus on environmental exposures that cause neurodevelopment and neurodegenerative diseases. We use mouse models to address these questions. We combine a range of approaches, including genetics, molecular biology, biochemistry, confocal imaging, and behavioral analyses. See the lab website https://neuroscience.vt.edu/people/core-faculty/pickrell-a.html and https://vetmed.vt.edu/people/faculty/morton-paul.html for more details.

The candidate will have the opportunity to author or co‑author publications, and depending on their background and experience, craft their own related research projects. Training and guidance will be provided for those aspects of the job in which the candidate is lacking sufficient expertise.

Required Qualifications

• BS degree in biology, molecular biology, neuroscience or related field
• At least 1 year of hands‑on experience in molecular biology (including DNA and RNA handling); ability to independently perform PCR and qPCR
• Ability to manage time, organize data and keep accurate lab records
• Ability to efficiently use computer software
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• Good communication skills
• Curiosity and enthusiasm for science
• Willingness to work with mice to organize and maintain mouse colony

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous laboratory experience in a biomedical research laboratory
• Experience and knowledge about cell and molecular biology and neuroscience
• Potential candidates should have a fundamental understanding of standard laboratory equipment ranging from centrifuges to PCR.
• Experience with confocal microscopy and analyses are a plus.

Pay Band

3

Overtime Status

Non‑Exempt: Eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

$42,000–$46,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications

Hours per week

40

Review Date

7/29/2026

Additional Information

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.

Accessibility Information

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Natalie Langowsky at [e-mail] during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.