Lab Technician or Specialist, Lu Lab - Cell Biology

The Lu lab in the Department of Cell Biology at the University of Virginia seeks a Lab Technician or Specialist (level depending on experience) to investigate molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying development of inner ear sensory hair cells and congenital deafness. The lab has a long‑standing interest in how Wnt / Planar Cell Polarity (PCP) signaling pathways and cell polarity proteins regulate hair cell cytoskeletal organization.

We have developed a multidisciplinary approach using biochemistry in vitro, ex vivo organ culture, fluorescence live imaging and mouse genetics for mechanistic investigation of deafness and other common congenital birth defects such as neural tube defects (NTD). The Lu lab has multiple NIH‑funded projects and fosters a respectful and supportive environment dedicated to research and education.

The new team member will work closely with Dr. Lu and other lab members. They will attend lab and project meetings weekly or more often as necessary. They will be trained and receive guidance and will be expected to interact professionally and collegially with all lab members including graduate and undergraduate students, treating all lab members with respect and consideration.

• Facilitate research of mouse models for hearing loss.
• Perform immunohistochemistry and cochlear explant assays, A  testing and maintenance of the mouse colony.
• Assist in molecular and cell biology experiments, including recombinant DNA construction, in situ hybridization, cell culture, transfection, and viral‑mediated transduction.
• Work with other team members to maintain mice/cells, carry out experiments, analyze data, and document and report results to the group.
• Perform routine lab maintenance and administration tasks.

• Education & Experience:
  
  Associate's degree required plus 2 years of experience;
  Bachelor's degree and 2+ years of experience preferred.

• Possess excellent attention to detail and strong problem‑solving and record‑keeping skills.
• Be a clear and honest communicator and be motivated to learn new laboratory skills and contribute to lab projects.
• Have knowledge of basic cell biology and biochemistry.
• Demonstrated experience working with mice and maintaining a mouse colony.
• Some experience with biochemical or cell‑based assays and molecular biology techniques such as PCR and in situ hybridization would be highly preferred.

This position can spend extensive periods of time standing and squatting while conducting experiments. Also requires keyboarding and other bench work and experimental procedures requiring finer finger manipulation.

• Lab Technician: $19–$20 per hour
• Lab Specialist: $21–$22 per hour

• This is a full‑time benefited position.
• This is a restricted position; continuation is dependent on funding and satisfactory performance.
• This position will not support visa sponsorship.
• This position is based in Charlottesville, VA, and must be performed fully on‑site.

Background checks and required health screening will be conducted on all new hires prior to employment.

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.