Hourly Lab Specialist - Pharmacology and Toxicology

The Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology is seeking a motivated individual to work in a behavioral pharmacology laboratory on NIH-funded research related to developing novel medications to treat Substance Use Disorders (SUDs). This position focuses on daily care, handling and drug administration to laboratory animals.  Additionally, this position is focused on preparing and managing behavioral testing sessions including IV drug self-administration and behavioral activity/observation scoring. Lastly, this position consists of carefully recording and storing obtained data, as well as preparing drug solutions and managing IV lines using sterile technique.

• →Animal handling and animal health assessment
• →Administer drug treatments to subjects
• →Utilize computer systems to initiate and perform behavioral testing
• →Routine laboratory maintenance and cleaning
• →Monitor supply levels/rotate stock
• →Assist with surgical procedures – prepare instrument packs, anesthetize and prepare subjects for surgery
• →Requires the ability accurately record, update and maintain daily experimental data

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• At least 1 year of lab experience, which may include student experience
• Must be dependable and attentive to detail
• Must be able to effectively work and communicate with supervisor and other laboratory personnel
• 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 hourly employee at VCU

Preferred Qualifications

• Must be comfortable working with animals, previous experience with laboratory rodents
• Bachelor’s degree in biology/life science or biomedical science related field

Back to search results Apply now Refer a friend