Research Technician

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

Job summary

Virginia Tech seeks a Research Technician in Roanoke, Virginia, to assist with laboratory operations and in-vivo and in-vitro research. Responsibilities include data collection, operating lab equipment, and maintaining detailed records in a clinical setting. Candidates should have effective communication skills and lab experience, specifically with pipettes. The role requires a commitment to confidentiality and the ability to work independently. This position does not offer visa sponsorship and includes a review after 40 hours per week.

Qualifications

• Must be able to work independently and manage time effectively.
• Demonstrated interpersonal skills with strong attention to detail.
• Exercise judgement and maintain a high degree of confidentiality.

Responsibilities

• Complete general laboratory operations and collect data for research projects.
• Operate equipment in a clinical setting during study sessions.
• Keep careful records of interactions with participants.

Skills

Effective communication

Detail oriented

Basic lab experience

Pipette experience

Comfortable with computer software

Interpersonal skills

Analytical and problem-solving skills

Education

Coursework or degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry or related field

Tools

Lab equipment (vortexer, centrifuge, pH meter, balance)

HPLC

Electrochemistry

Mass spectrometry

3D printing

Job description

Job Description

The Montague Lab at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at VTC is seeking a Research Technician to complete general laboratory operations and collect data for in‑vitro and in‑vivo research projects. The lab is currently employing advanced quantitative methods to conduct leading‑edge research on the role of neurotransmitters (dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine) in the human brain to understand human cognitive function and dysfunction. The research technician will be responsible for in‑vitro data collection to inform in‑vivo models of human neurochemistry. The technician will also be responsible for operating equipment in a clinical setting during study sessions with research participants. The successful candidate should be detail oriented, keeping careful records of interactions with participants in a hospital setting (such as in an operating room or recovery suite during their stay). They should also be flexible and enjoy fast‑paced research environment.

Required Qualifications

• Must be an effective communicator with excellent interpersonal skills
• Must have basic lab experience including dilutions, weighing chemicals, and understand proper chemical handling
• Must have pipette experience, preferably with micro-concentrations
• Must be able to work independently and manage time effectively
• Must be detail oriented
• Must be comfortable with computer software
• Must be able to sit or stand a lab bench for extended periods of time
• Demonstrated interpersonal, analytical and problem‑solving skills with strong attention to detail
• Must have a demonstrated ability to interact respectfully and comfortably with all individuals
• Exercise judgement and high degree of confidentiality

Preferred Qualifications

• Coursework or degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry or a related field
• General Shop Experience
• 3D printing
• Pipette experience, preferably with micro-concentrations
• Interest in advancing human neuroscience through dedicated repeat‑experiments
• Experience with lab equipment, such as a vortexer, centrifuge, pH meter and balance
• Experience with HPLC, electrochemistry and/or mass spectrometry
• Demonstrated communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to follow instructions
• Previous research experience

Additional Information

We are unable to sponsor work visas for this position.

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

Pay Band

3

Overtime Status

Non‑Exempt: Eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

Commensurate with Experience

Hours per week

40

Review Date

4/24/2026

EEO 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.