Laboratory Technician
Job Description
The laboratory of Dr. Matt Howe in the Virginia Tech School of Neuroscience is seeking a laboratory technician to assist with research projects beginning as early as October 2019. Research in the Howe lab uses a combination of technologies to measure and control neural activity and chemical neurotransmission. Research also examines complex behavioral assays to determine how different neural systems control cognitive functions like attention and motivation for different kinds of rewards. Our overarching goal is to determine how these systems are disrupted in neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders and identify new targets for the treatment of their symptoms. Further information on research in the Howe lab can be found here: https://neuroscience.vt.edu/people/core-faculty/howe-Matt.html.
In addition to assisting with research projects, technicians will be expected to assist with lab maintenance, ordering of lab supplies, and management of the lab’s rodent colony. Technicians are expected to function with relative independence and responsibility, reporting directly to Dr. Howe.
The successful candidate will have the opportunity to co-author publications and contribute to the development of experimental designs. In-house training will be made available for specific procedures in which the individual lacks experience.
Applications must be submitted online at www.jobs.vt.edu (POSTING #511310) and should include a cover letter, resume, and at least three references. Compensation will be based on previous experience. Review of applications is ongoing and will continue until the position is filled.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Neuroscience, Psychology, Biomedical engineering or related field and/or relevant experience
- Previous experience in a biology or psychology research laboratory
- Extensive experience with rodent handling (mouse and/or rat)
- Experience with rodent breeding, including the collection of samples for genotyping
- Experience with standard computer software for lab management (Excel, PowerPoint, etc.)
Preferred Qualifications
- Training in stereotaxic surgery
- Extensive experience with rodent behavioral assays and analysis
- Knowledge of statistics
- Experience with MATLAB
- Experience with electrophysiology or electrochemistry
Salary Information
Commensurate with Experience
Review Date
Review of applications will begin on October 10th and will continue until the position is filled.
Additional Information
The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check
About Virginia Tech
Virginia Tech is a public land-grant university, committed to teaching and learning, research, and outreach to the Commonwealth of Virginia, the nation, and the world. Building on its motto of Ut Prosim (that I may serve), Virginia Tech is dedicated to InclusiveVT—serving in the spirit of community, diversity, and excellence. We seek candidates who adopt and practice the Principles of Community, which are fundamental to our on-going efforts to increase access and inclusion and to create a community that nurtures learning and growth for all of its members. Virginia Tech actively seeks a broad spectrum of candidates to join our community in preparing leaders for the world.
Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or veteran status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.
If you are an individual with a disability and desire accommodation, please contact the hiring department.