Laboratory & Research Support Coordinator

About the role

The Invasive Species Research and Extension (ISRE) Lab at Virginia Tech is seeking a highly organized, people-first Laboratory & Research Support Coordinator.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and mentor a team of undergraduate researchers by overseeing onboarding, scheduling, training, and task assignments while fostering 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 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.).

Qualifications

• 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.

Preferred Qualifications

• 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.

Pay

Pay Band 3
Overtime Status: Non-Exempt: Eligible for overtime

Schedule

Hours per week: 40