Research Lab Technician, School of Medicine​/Neurology

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Position Summary:

To join an active research laboratory in Neurology and to participate in translational muscular dystrophy and neuromuscular research teams. This translational group is focused on understanding the molecular pathogenesis of muscular dystrophies, development of therapies for these conditions, and identifying biomarkers for use in clinical trials. This position would focus on laboratory work that promotes these goals through preclinical drug trials and the characterization of novel mouse models.

Additionally, this position will include the performance of molecular biology techniques such as molecular cloning, qRT-PCR, Western blots or immunoassays, ELISA, microscopy and/or immunostaining. In addition, cell culture techniques such as cell passaging, drug treatments, maintenance and differentiation of iPSC, and the transfection of cell lines is desirable.

Bench work with animal models of muscular dystrophies. Including animal husbandry, delivery/injection of experimental therapeutics, and harvest of tissues for analysis. (35%)Perform animal inventory and mouse colony maintenance

Perform animal husbandry pairing, separating, weaning, and ear punching

Organize and implement tissue specimen collection and freezing

Bench work with molecular and cellular models of the muscular dystrophies, including molecular cloning, molecular measurements, and developing and maintaining cell lines, including culturing and differentiating iPSCs (35%)Isolate and prepare protein, DNA and/or RNA from multiple sample types

Transform, isolate, grow, and harvest bacterial cultures for plasmid production

Perform DNA digestions, ligations, and other molecular biology methods

Perform PCR analyses for a variety of applications

Prepare culture media

Prepare other standard laboratory reagents

Perform immortalized cell and induced pluripotent stem cell culture

Keep up-to-date modifications of all Biosafety protocols

Project Implementation (20%)Help implement and maintain data management system(s) for the various projects in the labKeep meticulous records from multiple experiments

Document procedures for new methods developed

Keep inventory records of lab samples and reagents

Anticipate lab reagent needs on a weekly basis

Assist in writing/editing manuscripts

Other Tasks & Duties as assigned (10%)Perform daily and weekly lab maintenance tasks, such as biohazard waste removal or cleaning of shared laboratory spaces (gel bench or tissue culture room)
Assist where needed with other activities to assist with day-to-day management of center operations

Associate level degree in science2 or more years of experience in a laboratory1 – 2 years of experience with cellular models, processing samples, sequencing1 – 2 years of experience working independently in a laboratory setting

Must be proficient in the use of computers with the ability to learn new systems and software applications with ease. Proficiency in the use of Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Adobe.

Pro-actively ask questions and seek guidance when needed

Excellent customer service skills, written and verbal communication skills and the ability to work as part of a team.

Strong problem solving and time management skills are essential, including ability to adapt to frequent changes in work assignments, prioritize and manage competing priorities and deadlines.

Demonstrated work in and foster an environment of respect, professionalism and civility with a population of faculty, staff, and students from various backgrounds and experiences, or a commitment to do so as a staff member at VCU.

1 – 2 years of experience with cell culture, PCR and protein analysis1 – 2 years of experience with laboratory training or education1 – 2 years of experience with a team science approach

Yes. This is a restricted position with no set end date; continued employment is dependent upon project need, availability of funding, and performance.

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All full-time university staff are eligible for VCU's robust benefits package that includes comprehensive health benefits, paid annual and holiday leave, generous tuition benefits, retirement planning and savings options, tax-deferred annuity and cash match programs, employee discounts, well-being resources, abundant opportunities for career development and advancement, and more.

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Contact Name:
Eric Hunsley Contact Email: hunsleye