Lab/Research Technician - Microbiology and Immunology

Duties & Responsibilities

• Carry out mouse-based immunology experiments:
• Isolation and characterization of immune cells from intestinal and lymphoid tissues using flow cytometry
• Functional analysis of innate and adaptive immune cell populations
• Auxiliary work with mouse models of intestinal inflammation and infection
• Immunological, molecular, and cellular analyses of experimental mouse models
• Laboratory maintenance:
• Maintain laboratory organization and cleanliness
• Monitor laboratory safety and report safety concerns
• Ordering supplies and maintaining laboratory equipment
• Supporting laboratory operations:
• Training new laboratory members in standard laboratory techniques
• Preparing reagents, cells, and experimental materials
• Assisting with ongoing research projects and collaborative experiments
• Completing experiments when needed to ensure project continuity

Qualifications

• Minimum Qualifications:
• Bachelor of Science in Biology, Immunology, Microbiology, or another related life science discipline
• Basic laboratory skills including pipetting, solution preparation, sterile technique, and laboratory safety
• Familiarity with flow cytometry (FACS)
• Computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office and data management
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to maintain accurate laboratory records
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative research team
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Demonstrated ability to work in and foster an environment of respect, professionalism and civility with a population of faculty, staff, and students from all backgrounds and experiences, or a commitment to do so as a staff member at VCU
• Preferred Qualifications:
• At least one year of experience working in a biomedical research laboratory
• Experience in immunology, microbiology, or related biomedical research
• Experience with FlowJo or other flow cytometry analysis software
• Experience with multicolor and/or spectral flow cytometry
• Experience working with genetically engineered mouse models, including breeding and colony management
• Experience with PCR, qPCR, genotyping, Western blotting, or other molecular biology techniques
• Experience isolating immune cells from lymphoid and/or intestinal tissues
• Experience with tissue culture techniques
• Experience with data analysis and scientific record keeping

Pay & Benefits

Salary Range: $41,600-$46,000

Benefits: 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.

FLSA Exemption Status: Non-Exempt

Hours per Week: 40

Restricted Position: Yes

ORP Eligible: No

Flexible Work Arrangement: Fully Onsite

University Job Title: 34051-3 - Lab/Research Technician 1-3

Contact Information: Contact Email: SOMHR@vcuhealth.org