Lab Tech​/Specialist - Brandebura Lab

The Brandebura lab, at the University of Virginia School of Medicine Department of Neuroscience, seeks candidates for Lab Tech 1 or 2 or Lab Specialist. The Brandebura Laboratory studies astrocyte dysfunction in neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders like Down Syndrome and Alzheimer’s Disease. We are focused on how to target astrocytes, and their signaling to other glial cells and the vasculature, to improve neuroinflammation, blood brain barrier and synapse dysfunction.

We utilize mouse models and primary cell culture to test biological mechanisms.

The candidate will manage the animal colony, perform genotyping and keep an accurate and detailed record of the mouse census. In collaboration with Dr. Brandebura, the candidate will make requested changes to the animal and biosafety protocols.

The candidate will be responsible for creating lab inventories of available reagents, stocking the lab, ordering supplies and preparing solutions and buffers.

In addition to the duties, the candidate will be required to work on collecting experimental data, including microscopy imaging of brain slices, cell culture experiments and behavioral analysis on mice. Prior experience with mouse handling is desired, but not required. The candidate will absolutely be required to work with mice so the candidate must be open and willing to do this.

The candidate will also participate in analysis of the collected data and will be required to present this data in lab meetings. Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint is required. Experience with statistical analysis and graphing software is a plus.

Under the supervision of Dr. Brandebura, the candidate will optimize and archive lab protocols for later use and will be required to keep a detailed and accurate lab notebook that others can follow.

Importantly, this lab will consist of multiple trainees at all levels, from undergraduate to postdoctoral fellows, and so the ideal candidate must be willing to work as a team, create an inclusive environment and be willing to train new lab members on existing protocols in the lab.

• Education:
  
  Associate's degree required; may accept equivalent combination of experience, education, certification in lieu of degree.
• Experience:
  
  2+ years of lab experience which may include student experience.
• Licensure:
  None.

This position can spend extensive periods of time standing and squatting while conducting experiments or caring for animals. Also requires keyboarding and other benchwork and animal procedures requiring fine finger manipulation.

The anticipated hiring range is commensurate with education and experience.

This is a full-time benefited position located in Charlottesville, Virginia.

This position is restricted; continuation is dependent on funding and satisfactory performance.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.