Lab Specialist Intermediate, Ophthalmology

University of Virginia•Charlottesville, VA

8d•Onsite

About The Position

A Lab Specialist Intermediate position is available at the at the Department of Ophthalmology (Iomini Lab) at the The University of Virginia School of Medicine in Charlottesville, VA. The role requires a full-time commitment with compensation aligned with University of Virginia standards. Engaging in a research project and defending a Master’s thesis is encouraged. Research: Our laboratory studies morphogenesis and disease conditions of the mammalian eye. We specifically focus on understanding the signal transduction pathways involved in eye development, regeneration, and diseases using the mouse as a model system, combined with advanced two-photon microscopy and single-cell profiling. Institute: We are part of the University of Virginia School of Medicine, which hosts an array of leading research institutes, centers, and facilities, offering interested candidates an interactive, highly collaborative, and innovative scientific environment that fosters strong interactions between basic and translational research. We are seeking a highly motivated individual to assist postdocs and the principal investigator in well-defined research projects sponsored by the National Eye Institute at NIH involving the use of two-photon confocal microscopy, mouse dissections, and genotyping following protocols available in the laboratory. Experience with mouse colonies, tissue culture, histological preparations, flow cytometry, confocal microscopy, and molecular cloning is highly desirable but not required. The candidate must be comfortable working with mice. Training in mouse handling and colony management will be provided.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree required.
3+ years of relevant experience.
Comfortable working with mice.

Nice To Haves

Experience with mouse colonies, tissue culture, histological preparations, flow cytometry, confocal microscopy, and molecular cloning is highly desirable but not required.
Willingness to work with experimental animals (mice).
Excellent analytical, organizational, communication, and computer skills.

Responsibilities

Assist lab members with maintaining and organizing mouse strains involved in their assigned project.
Carry out basic histology tasks, including dissecting eye tissue, paraffin and plastic embedding, sectioning, and staining of embedded samples.
Assist with experiments in immunofluorescence based on existing.
Assist with lab organization, inventory management, record keeping, and ordering.
Actively enhance skills and expertise.
Operate standard equipment such as centrifuges, PCR machines and cell sorting equipment.
Responsible for laboratory maintenance, preparing solutions and media, and ordering supplies
Identify and report problems in the completion of routine lab processes.
Update Excel sheets for lab inventory