Research technician - Department of Pathology

Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) School of Medicine is a premier academic medical center located in the heart of Richmond. The School of Medicine accounts for almost half of VCU’s sponsored research and is internationally recognized for patient care and education. The Department of Pathology’s mission is to provide high‑quality, cost‑effective pathology services that support the patient‑care, education, and research missions of the VCU Health System and School of Medicine.

Responsibilities

• Assist with the preparation and execution of laboratory experiments under the direction of the Principal Investigator and senior laboratory members.
• Perform routine mammalian cell culture and assist with cellular and biochemical experiments relevant to ongoing research projects following appropriate training.
• Assist with in vivo studies involving mice after completing required institutional and laboratory training.
• Assist with chemical synthesis and related laboratory procedures, as appropriate to ongoing research projects and following appropriate training.
• Prepare buffers, solutions, reagents, and other materials needed for laboratory experiments.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records and document experimental procedures and results.
• Assist with the organization and maintenance of laboratory supplies, reagents, and equipment; monitor inventory; and help with ordering and receiving supplies.
• Participate in research meetings and communicate experimental progress with the Principal Investigator and other laboratory members.
• Perform other research‑related duties as needed to support ongoing laboratory projects.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, biomedical sciences, or a related scientific discipline, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant training.
• Interest in biomedical research and willingness to learn new laboratory techniques.
• Ability to carefully follow written and verbal experimental procedures.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to maintain accurate laboratory records.
• Basic computer skills, including word processing, spreadsheets, and data organization.
• Ability to work independently after appropriate training as well as collaboratively as part of a research team.
• Strong communication skills, professionalism, and a commitment to careful and consistent laboratory work.
• Demonstrated ability to work in and foster an environment of respect, professionalism, and civility with faculty, staff, and students from diverse backgrounds, or a commitment to do so as a VCU staff member.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree or additional coursework in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, biomedical sciences, pharmacology, or a related discipline.
• Previous exposure to a research laboratory environment.
• Familiarity with mammalian cell culture or basic cellular and biochemical laboratory techniques, including molecular biology or biochemical methods.
• Previous experience working with laboratory animals, particularly mice.
• Interest in developing technical expertise in cell culture, cellular and biochemical assays, pharmacology, and in vivo research.

Salary

$20 – $25 per hour

Benefits

All VCU employee types are eligible for a wide array of benefits to support you during your employment at VCU. See the VCU benefits website for eligibility details.

Schedule

Part‑time position, approximately 29 hours per week, fully onsite. Position is non‑exempt (FLSA).