Molecular Ecology Lab Manager

Job Description

The Rogers Lab ((Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).) in the Department of Fish and Wildlife Conservation at Virginia Tech is hiring a Molecular Ecology Lab Manager. Based in Blacksburg, VA, this full‑time position is ideal for someone with strong molecular and project management skills who wants to support conservation‑focused ecological research. We study how invasive species and vertebrate loss reshape ecological communities. Our molecular ecology research uses DNA metabarcoding and environmental DNA (eDNA) to track food webs, seed dispersal, and pollination networks in the Mariana Islands.

The lab manager will play a central role in generating high‑quality molecular data and supporting a busy, multi‑project lab.

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in biology, ecology, environmental science, or related field
• Experience with DNA extraction and PCR in a molecular biology research lab

• Experience preparing libraries for high‑throughput sequencing (e.g., Illumina)
• Experience analyzing environmental DNA (eDNA) or metabarcoding data
• Experience mentoring or supervising undergraduate researchers
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail

Pay Band: 4

Overtime Status: Non‑Exempt:
Eligible for overtime

Appointment Type: Restricted

Hours per week: 40

Review Date: 10/6/25

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

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.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Jennifer Phillips at jewolfor during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.