Research technician - Department of Pathology

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented part-time Laboratory Research Technician to support ongoing research projects investigating the use of small molecules as therapeutics and chemical tools to understand disease-relevant biology. Current research in the laboratory includes the development of novel therapeutics for substance use disorders and overdose, safer opioid and non-opioid approaches to pain, and mechanism-driven therapeutic strategies in cancer.

The Laboratory Research Technician will assist the Principal Investigator and other laboratory members with routine laboratory operations and the execution of research experiments. The successful candidate will receive training in techniques relevant to ongoing projects, including multistep organic synthesis, mammalian cell culture, biochemical and cellular assays, and in vivo studies involving mice.

Prior laboratory research experience is not required. This position is well suited for an individual interested in gaining hands-on biomedical research experience and developing research skills in a multidisciplinary research environment.

This is a part-time position, anticipated at approximately 29 hours per week.

• →Assist with the preparation and execution of laboratory experiments under the direction of the Principal Investigator and senior laboratory members.
• →Perform routine mammalian cell culture and assist with cellular and biochemical experiments relevant to ongoing research projects following appropriate training.
• →Assist with in vivo studies involving mice following completion of required institutional and laboratory training.
• →Assist with chemical synthesis and related laboratory procedures, as appropriate to ongoing research projects and following appropriate training.
• →Prepare buffers, solutions, reagents, and other materials needed for laboratory experiments.
• →Maintain accurate laboratory records and document experimental procedures and results.
• →Assist with the organization and maintenance of laboratory supplies, reagents, and equipment; monitor laboratory inventory; and assist with ordering and receiving supplies.
• →Participate in research meetings and communicate experimental progress with the Principal Investigator and other laboratory members.
• →Perform other research-related duties as needed to support ongoing laboratory projects.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, biomedical sciences, or a related scientific discipline, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant training.
• Interest in biomedical research and willingness to learn new laboratory techniques.
• Ability to carefully follow written and verbal experimental procedures.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to maintain accurate laboratory records.
• Basic computer skills, including word processing, spreadsheets, and data organization.
• Ability to work independently after appropriate training as well as collaboratively as part of a research team.
• Strong communication skills, professionalism, and a commitment to careful and consistent laboratory work.
• Demonstrated ability to work in and foster an environment of respect, professionalism, and civility with faculty, staff, and students from a variety of backgrounds and experiences, or a commitment to do so as a staff member at VCU.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree or additional coursework in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, biomedical sciences, pharmacology, or a related discipline.
• Previous exposure to a research laboratory environment.
• Familiarity with mammalian cell culture or basic cellular and biochemical laboratory techniques including molecular biology or biochemical techniques.
• Previous experience working with laboratory animals, particularly mice.
• Interest in developing technical expertise in cell culture, cellular and biochemical assays, pharmacology, and in vivo research.