Lab Technician or Specialist
About The Position
The Department of Neuroscience in the School of Medicine at the University of Virginia is seeking a Lab Technician to join their team. The Lab Technician provides technical, operational, and administrative support for a neuroscience research laboratory focused on brain tumors, epilepsy, and neurodegeneration. This position supports ongoing research activities, laboratory organization, regulatory compliance, animal colony coordination, and onboarding/training of laboratory personnel. The technician works under the supervision of the Principal Investigator and laboratory management staff while exercising independence in following established laboratory procedures and protocols.
Requirements
- Minimum Requirements for Lab Technician 1: Education: High school diploma or equivalent. Experience: At least 1 year of lab experience, which may include experience as a student. A bachelor's degree in a related science field will be considered in lieu of experience.
- Minimum Requirements for Lab Technician 2: Education: Associate's degree. Experience: At least 2 years of laboratory experience, which may include experience as a student. A bachelor's degree in a related science field will be considered in lieu of experience.
Nice To Haves
- Bachelor’s degree in neuroscience, biology, biomedical sciences, or a related scientific field.
- Previous experience working in a biomedical research laboratory.
- Experience with animal research and laboratory compliance procedures.
- Strong organizational, communication, and multitasking skills.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research environment.
Responsibilities
- Assist with laboratory research projects and pilot studies.
- Perform routine experimental procedures and learn new laboratory techniques as needed to support ongoing projects.
- Assist researchers with data organization, record keeping, and experimental preparation.
- Support animal-based research activities in accordance with approved protocols and institutional guidelines.
- Serve as the primary liaison between the animal facility and laboratory personnel.
- Monitor and maintain records of mouse colony status, including cage counts and colony organization.
- Communicate colony updates and breeding needs to the Principal Investigator and laboratory management.
- Coordinate genotyping submissions and related colony management logistics.
- Maintain laboratory inventories, including consumables, reagents, and shared supplies.
- Manage standing purchase orders and coordinate ordering of laboratory essentials through institutional purchasing systems.
- Maintain organization and functionality of shared laboratory equipment.
- Coordinate equipment maintenance and service requests as needed.
- Assist with laboratory-wide cleaning, maintenance, and organizational tasks.
- Serve as laboratory safety coordinator and help ensure compliance with institutional and regulatory requirements.
- Maintain laboratory records and documentation, including biosafety approvals, animal protocols, training records, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
- Maintain laboratory chemical inventory and ensure proper labeling and storage practices.
- Keep equipment contact information, alarm systems, and emergency documentation up to date.
- Assist with preparation for laboratory inspections and compliance reviews.
- Assist with onboarding and orientation of new laboratory personnel.
- Provide training to students and new lab members on laboratory procedures, equipment usage, and safety practices.
- Track required laboratory certifications and training compliance for laboratory personnel.
- Other duties may be assigned as needed to support laboratory operations and research activities.
Benefits
- Full-time benefited position
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
