Laboratory & Research Support Coordinator

Virginia Tech • Blacksburg, VA

2d • $39,520 - $42,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The Invasive Species Research and Extension (ISRE) Lab at Virginia Tech is seeking a highly organized, people-first Laboratory & Research Support Coordinator who enjoys working closely with students and helping build a positive, inclusive, and productive research community. This position plays a central role in the day-to-day operations of a growing and collaborative research program focused on the evolutionary ecology and management of invasive species. The successful candidate will coordinate and mentor a team of undergraduate researchers by overseeing onboarding, scheduling, training, and task assignments while fostering a supportive and collaborative laboratory culture. In addition, the laboratory manager will support laboratory operations and administrative functions, including purchasing, inventory management, equipment maintenance, research logistics, permitting, vehicle reservations, and maintenance of laboratory organization and safety procedures. The position offers an exciting opportunity to help shape the growth of a new and expanding research program while supporting student development and facilitating high-quality research.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in ecology, entomology, environmental science, biology, natural resources, or a closely related field; or, equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Ability to work outdoors under varying environmental conditions and travel to field sites (including overnight camping) as needed.
• Experience developing and implementing training protocols, onboarding procedures, and lab and field safety practices related to invasive species and invasive species management.
• Experience with field and laboratory research methods, sample collection, quality assurance processes, and data management.
• Experience supporting research, monitoring, and management programs related to ecological systems.
• Experience coordinating multiple projects simultaneously.
• Experience working with spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) and Japanese knotweed (Reynoutria spp.).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including significant science communication experience to diverse audiences.
• Valid driver's license or ability to obtain one by the start date.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of Virginia Tech's internal administrative systems, including HokieMart for purchasing and Banner Time Entry for wage employee timekeeping.
• Experience managing laboratory budgets, purchasing, or administrative logistics.
• Experience coordinating large undergraduate research teams or implementing mentoring programs.
• Familiarity with extension and stakeholder-engaged research programs.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and mentor a team of undergraduate researchers by overseeing onboarding, scheduling, training, and task assignments.
• Foster a supportive and collaborative laboratory culture.
• Support laboratory operations and administrative functions, including purchasing, inventory management, equipment maintenance, research logistics, permitting, vehicle reservations, and maintenance of laboratory organization and safety procedures.
• Help shape the growth of a new and expanding research program.
• Support student development and facilitate high-quality research.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level