Lab Technician or Specialist

Overview

The Department of Neuroscience in the School of Medicine at the University of Virginia is seeking a Lab Technician to join their team. The Lab Technician provides technical, operational, and administrative support for a neuroscience research laboratory focused on brain tumors, epilepsy, and neurodegeneration. This position supports ongoing research activities, laboratory organization, regulatory compliance, animal colony coordination, and onboarding/training of laboratory personnel.

The technician works under the supervision of the Principal Investigator and laboratory management staff while exercising independence in following established laboratory procedures and protocols.

• Assist with laboratory research projects and pilot studies.
• Perform routine experimental procedures and learn new laboratory techniques as needed to support ongoing projects.
• Assist researchers with data organization, record keeping, and experimental preparation.
• Support animal-based research activities in accordance with approved protocols and institutional guidelines.
• Other duties may be assigned as needed to support laboratory operations and research activities.

• Serve as the primary liaison between the animal facility and laboratory personnel.
• Monitor and maintain records of mouse colony status, including cage counts and colony organization.
• Communicate colony updates and breeding needs to the Principal Investigator and laboratory management.
• Coordinate genotyping submissions and related colony management logistics.

• Maintain laboratory inventories, including consumables, reagents, and shared supplies.
• Manage standing purchase orders and coordinate ordering of laboratory essentials through institutional purchasing systems.
• Maintain organization and functionality of shared laboratory equipment.
• Coordinate equipment maintenance and service requests as needed.
• Assist with laboratory-wide cleaning, maintenance, and organizational tasks.

• Serve as laboratory safety coordinator and help ensure compliance with institutional and regulatory requirements.
• Maintain laboratory records and documentation, including biosafety approvals, animal protocols, training records, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Maintain laboratory chemical inventory and ensure proper labeling and storage practices.
• Keep equipment contact information, alarm systems, and emergency documentation up to date.
• Assist with preparation for laboratory inspections and compliance reviews.

• Assist with onboarding and orientation of new laboratory personnel.
• Provide training to students and new lab members on laboratory procedures, equipment usage, and safety practices.
• Track required laboratory certifications and training compliance for laboratory personnel.

Lab Technician 1:
Education — High school diploma or equivalent;
Experience — At least 1 year of lab experience, which may include experience as a student. A bachelor’s degree in a related science field will be considered in lieu of experience.

Lab Technician 2:
Education — Associate's degree;
Experience — At least 2 years of laboratory experience, which may include experience as a student. A bachelor's degree in a related science field will be considered in lieu of experience.

• Bachelor’s degree in neuroscience, biology, biomedical sciences, or a related scientific field.
• Previous experience working in a biomedical research laboratory.
• Experience with animal research and laboratory compliance procedures.
• Strong organizational, communication, and multitasking skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a…