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 perform duties such as:

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.

The candidate will collect 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 must be willing to work with mice. The candidate will also participate in analysis of the collected data and 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.

The lab will consist of multiple trainees at all levels, from undergraduate to postdoctoral fellows, and 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.

Physical demands:
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 that require fine finger manipulation.

This is a restricted position; continuation is dependent on funding and satisfactory performance. The position is located in Charlottesville, Virginia. This is a full-time benefited position. The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment. A completed pre-employment health screen is required for this position prior to employment. Compensation:
The anticipated hiring range is commensurate with education and experience.

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.