Research Lab Specialist

Pay band 3. Non-exempt position eligible for overtime. 40+ hours per week.

About the role

Virginia Tech is dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), pushing the boundaries of knowledge through a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to prepare scholars as leaders and problem-solvers. The university is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity, with a significant presence across Virginia and a leading global research institution conducting over $650 million in research annually.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day lab operations to ensure efficient activities, including organization and maintenance.
• Develop safety plans and certifications; enforce health and safety regulations.
• Order and manage lab supplies, reagents, and research materials, including maintaining cell lines, glycerol stocks, and mouse colonies.
• Conduct complex, multi-step laboratory procedures based on written protocols and oral instruction using molecular biological, microbiological, or genetic techniques (e.g., PCR, electrophoresis, sequencing, tissue culture, transformations, blot analysis).
• Maintain a detailed lab notebook, tabulate and graph data, and interpret results.
• Read relevant scientific literature and identify pertinent facts, techniques, and procedures from primary sources.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a science-related field.
• Practical experience in a molecular biology laboratory setting.

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong organizational, time management, and communication skills.

Additional Information

The successful candidate will be required to pass a criminal conviction check. Virginia Tech is an equal-opportunity employer and encourages professional development and participation in university shared governance.