Research Technologist - Department of Pathology

Virginia Commonwealth University

Richmond (VA)

Hybrid

USD 55,000 - 74,000

Full time

14 days+

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Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Leave benefits

Tuition benefits

Retirement options

Annuity and cash match

Employee discounts

Well-being resources

Career development

Job summary

Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine in Richmond, VA, seeks a Scientist RS 1 to perform complex chromosomal analyses using cytogenetic methods including FISH and DNA marker analysis. The role supports patient care, education, and research within the Pathology department.

The position involves cell culture, DNA work, and communication of results, with a hybrid work arrangement and a strong commitment to confidentiality and professional conduct in a diverse academic setting.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s in a life science program; working knowledge of cell biology, cytogenetics, and general lab skills.
DNA extraction, dilution, and amplification skills; ability to perform multiple tasks.
Commitment to confidentiality and professional conduct with diverse populations.

Responsibilities

Establish cells in culture for chromosomal analysis.
Score cells for micronuclei frequencies and copy number using molecular cytogenetic techniques including FISH.
Compile and analyze the number and structure of chromosomes in cells.
Isolate DNA and analyze DNA marker patterns.
Prepare aliquots of specimens for shipment to collaborators.
Track lab inventory and ordering of reagents.
Maintain equipment to ensure smooth operation.

Skills

Cell biology

Cytogenetics

Sterile technique

DNA extraction

Analytical skills

Education

Bachelor's in life science

Master’s or Ph.D. in life sciences

Tools

FISH technology

GTG-banding

Job description

Advertising Summary

Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) School of Medicine is a premier academic medical center located in the heart of Richmond. Accounting for almost half of VCU’s sponsored research, the School of Medicine is internationally recognized for patient care and education. Virginia Commonwealth University is an equal opportunity employer.

Unit

School Of Medicine MBU

Department

Pathology

Department Summary

The mission of the Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) Department of Pathology is to provide high-quality, cost-effective pathology services that support the patient care, education, and research missions of the VCU Health System and School of Medicine.

Duties & Responsibilities

The purpose of this position is to provide high quality analyses of the chromosomal/genetic complement of cases studied, including assessments of micronuclei frequency and contents, telomere length, aneuploidy assessment, structural chromosomal rearrangements, and DNA markers. This is achieved with the following skills: Use of optimal sterile techniques for tissue culture, maintenance of conditions for in vitro cell division, and a thorough examination of the number and structure of chromosomes in all cells scored. Analysis of chromatin using molecular cytogenetic techniques, including FISH technology. Isolation of DNA and analysis of DNA marker patterns. Compilation and communication of study results.

Duties include

Establishment of cells in culture for chromosomal analysis.

Score cells for micronuclei frequencies and copy number findings using molecular cytogenetic techniques, including (but not limited to) FISH technology.

Compilation and analysis of the results of the number and structure of chromosomes in cells

Isolation of DNA and analysis of DNA marker patterns.

Preparation of aliquots of specimens for shipment to collaborators

Tracking of lab inventory and ordering of reagents

Maintenance of equipment to ensure smooth operation

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s in a life science program. Working knowledge of cell biology, cytogenetics, and general laboratory skills. Manual dexterity and the ability to perform sterile technique. DNA extraction, dilution, and amplification skills. Ability to perform multiple tasks simultaneously. A sense of responsibility and respect for study participant and patient confidentiality. Demonstrated ability to work in and foster an environment of respect, professionalism and civility with a population of faculty, staff, and students from all backgrounds and experiences, or a commitment to do so as a staff member at VCU

Preferred Qualifications

Master’s or Ph.D. degree in a life science program. Experience in cytogenetics preferred. Certification (past or present) as a cytogenetic technologist [CLSp(CG)] desired. Experience with FISH technology/interphase FISH methodology, knowledge of GTG-banding patterns, and keen observational skills

Salary Range

$64,500

Benefits

All full-time university staff are eligible for VCU’s robust benefits package that includes: