Lab/Research Technician - Microbiology and Immunology

Lab/Research Technician - Microbiology and ImmunologyVirginia Commonwealth University (VCU) School of Medicine is a premier academic medical center located in the heart of Richmond. Accounting for almost half of VCU's sponsored research, the School of Medicine is internationally recognized for patient care and education. Virginia Commonwealth University is an equal opportunity employer.Unit: School Of Medicine MBUDepartment: Microbiology and ImmunologyDepartment Summary: Located on the MCV Campus in downtown Richmond, the Department of Microbiology and Immunology is home to a vibrant community of researchers, educators and learners. With a strong history of research funding, our department strives to advance scientific knowledge in the biomedical sciences and inform medical advancements that improve patient outcomes. Our innovative studies span a broad spectrum of areas within the fields of microbiology and immunology: Allergy and autoimmunity Host-pathogen interactions and molecular pathogenesis Human microbiome science and microbial genomics Reproductive immunology T-cell therapy and vaccine development Tumor biology, cell signaling and epigenetics As educators, we are proud to provide a collaborative, collegial learning environment for our students. Faculty and postdoctoral fellows serve as dedicated mentors, providing an individualized educational experience and shaping the next generation of successful scientists.Duties & Responsibilities:The laboratory technician will assist the Principal Investigator, postdoctoral scientists, and graduate students with extramurally funded research projects investigating interactions among sensory neurons, immune cells, and epithelial cells in the skin. The goals of the research projects will be to:To study how neurons and immune cells promote protection against skin-invading parasites.To define how sensory neurons and their mediators modulate T lymphocytes in the context of psoriasis.To determine the actions of parasitic helminths on neurons that evoke itch and pain.Core Responsibilities:Laboratory maintenanceOversee the lab's mouse colony and genotyping through PCRHelp maintain lab cleanlinessBe responsible for monitoring and reporting lab safety issuesReagents and supplies orderingMaintenance of lab equipmentUnder the direction of the PI, carry out mouse-based neurobiology and immunology experimentsEvaluation of neuron populations in DRG, SC, and skinMonitoring mouse itch and pain behaviorPreparation of tissues for analysis with FACS, ELISA, and IHCMaintaining proper recordsDiligently keep laboratory notebook of all experimentsTrack use of key reagentsAssisting other lab members with experiments, as directed by the PI (10% effort time)Support experiments by preparing cells, reagents, etc.Start or complete experiments if lab member has other obligations.Qualifications:Minimum QualificationsBachelor of Science in the life sciences, preferably biology with experience in neuroscience or immunology, or equivalent experienceBasic lab skills such as pipetting, making solutions, lab safety.Computer skills including data management, word processing, Excel, etc.A demonstrated proficiency in keeping detailed notes, files, and records organizedAbility to effectively multitaskAttention to detailA strong, diligent work ethicExcellent communication skillsDemonstrated 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 VCUPreferred QualificationsAt least one year of prior experience working in a biomedical laboratoryExperience working with mice, maintaining a mouse colony, breeding, harvesting blood and organs from miceFamiliarity with the study of peripheral neurobiology and/or immunologyExperience with cryosectioning and IHCExperience with molecular biology (e.g., plasmid preparation, Western blot, PCR, qPCR)Salary Range: $41,600-$46,000Benefits: 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: 40Flexible Work Agreement: fully onsiteRestricted Position: YesORP Eligible: NoUniversity Job Title: Lab/Research Technician 1-3 (34051-34053)This is a restricted position with no set end date; continued employment is dependent upon project need, availability of funding, and performance.