Research Technician; Buczynski Lab

Job Description

The Gregus/Buczynski Lab in the School of Neuroscience at Virginia Tech is seeking a part‑time Research Technician to support ongoing, extramurally funded research focused on identifying new therapeutic strategies for chronic pain and alcohol use disorder.

This position is ideally suited for a recent undergraduate graduate seeking 1.5–2 years of immersive research experience prior to applying to a PhD program (or related advanced training). The technician will gain hands‑on experience in behavioral neuroscience and pharmacology, contribute meaningfully to funded projects, and have clear opportunities to earn authorship on publications.

About the Gregus/Buczynski Lab:

Our laboratory integrates behavioral pharmacology, neuropharmacology, and translational neuroscience to address clinically relevant questions with real‑world impact. We maintain active collaborations with investigators at Scripps Research, Mayo Clinic, University of Texas at Austin, University of Texas at Dallas, and across Virginia Tech, providing exposure to interdisciplinary, team‑based science.

• Assist with rodent behavioral experiments related to pain and substance use
  · Support ongoing projects through data collection, organization, and preliminary analysis
• Maintain animal colony records and assist with routine laboratory operations
• Prepare solutions, maintain equipment, and ensure compliance with lab protocols
• Participate in lab meetings and research discussions
• Contribute to abstracts, posters, and manuscripts (with opportunities for co‑authorship)

This position is designed as a structured research training experience, not just a technical role.

• Hands‑on training in experimental design, behavioral assays, and data interpretation
• Regular mentorship focused on graduate‑school preparation, including advice on selecting programs, building a competitive application, and scientific writing & communication
• Opportunities to attend lab meetings, departmental seminars, and conferences as appropriate

Our lab is team‑oriented, supportive, collegial, and inclusive. We value curiosity, reliability, and a genuine interest in learning how high‑quality science is done.

• Bachelor’s degree in neuroscience, psychology, biology, pharmacology, or a related field (completed by start date)
• Interest in behavioral neuroscience, pharmacology, or translational research
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Effective written and verbal communication skills

• Prior experience working with animals (e.g., rat or mouse behavior)
• Coursework or research experience related to neuroscience, psychology, or physiology
• Interest in pursuing a research‑focused graduate degree (PhD or equivalent)
• Previous laboratory, independent research, or honors thesis experience

Note:

No prior experience in all techniques used in the lab is expected – motivation, reliability, and enthusiasm for research are valued more than an exact skill match.

3

Non‑Exempt:
Eligible for overtime

Restricted

$18‑$24 per hour, commensurate with experience.

20

Open Until Filled

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

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Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands‑on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem‑solvers. A comprehensive land‑grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College.

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