Laboratory Technician; Pickrell Lab

Job Description

We are looking for a responsible and well‑organized laboratory technician to independently oversee research activities in the Pickrell laboratory, School of Neuroscience, Virginia Tech. The technician will assist group members with their projects and will be responsible for maintaining laboratory stocks, databases, and inventory of supplies, as well as overall organization of the lab.

The lab studies how mitochondria and selective autophagy pathways contribute to disease and function in normal physiology. We use mouse and cell culture, genetics, molecular biology, biochemistry, confocal and live imaging, and behavioral analyses to address these questions. The candidate may author or co‑author publications and can devise their own research projects with training and guidance provided for areas where expertise is lacking.

• Oversee laboratory research activities and assist group members with experiments.
• Maintain laboratory stocks, databases, inventory of supplies, and general organization.
• Assist in designing and executing experiments across genetics, molecular biology, biochemistry, imaging, and behavior.
• Provide support for publication preparation and potential project development.

• BS degree in biology, molecular biology, neuroscience or a related field.
• At least 1 year of hands‑on experience in molecular biology (DNA and RNA handling), including independent molecular cloning.
• Strong time‑management, data organization, and accurate lab recordkeeping.
• Proficient computer software usage.
• Ability to work independently as well as in a team.
• Good communication skills.
• Curiosity and enthusiasm for science.

• Previous experience in a biomedical research laboratory.
• Knowledge of cell and molecular biology, especially mitochondrial biology.
• Understanding of standard laboratory equipment (centrifuges, PCR, etc.).
• Experience with live imaging and confocal microscopy.

• Hours per week: 40.
• Pay band: 3.
• Overtime status:
  Non‑Exempt, eligible for overtime.
• Appointment type:
  Restricted.
• Required:
  
  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 on any other basis protected by law.