Research Technician

Job Description

The Howe Lab at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech and is seeking a Research Technician to complete general laboratory operations and collect data for in-vitro and in-vivo research projects. We currently employ advanced quantitative methods to conduct leading-edge research on the role of neurotransmitters (acetylcholine, dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine) in the human brain to understand human cognitive function and dysfunction. The research technician will be responsible for in-vitro and in vivo data collection to inform models of human neurochemistry. The technician will also be responsible for conducting behavioral tests and neural recordings in model species. The successful candidate should be detail oriented and have previous experience in experimental neurobiology. They should also be flexible and enjoy a fast-paced research environment.

Additional duties will include:
-Maintaining precise stock solutions
-Assisting in purchasing and monitoring supply inventory
-Adhering to all established Federal, State and Institute procedural and chemical safety standards and requirements
-Flexibility to work on weekends

Required Qualifications

- Must be an effective communicator with excellent interpersonal skills
- Must have basic lab experience including dilutions, weighing chemicals, and understand proper chemical handling
-Must have pipette experience, preferably with micro-concentrations
- Must be able to work independently and manage time effectively
- Must be detail oriented
- Must be comfortable with computer software
- Must be able to sit or stand a lab bench for extended periods of time
- Demonstrated interpersonal, analytical and problem solving skills with strong attention to detail
- Must have a demonstrated ability to interact respectfully and comfortably with all individuals in a diverse, multicultural environment, exercising judgement and high degree of confidentiality

Preferred Qualifications

-Coursework or training in Neuroscience, Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry or a related field
-Interest in advancing human neuroscience through dedicated repeat-experiments
-Experience with lab equipment, such as a vortexer, centrifuge, pH meter, and balance
-Experience with HPLC, electrochemistry, and/or mass spectrometry
-Experience with stereotaxic surgery in rodents
-Demonstrated communication skills
-Demonstrated ability to follow instructions
-Previous research experience

Pay Band

3

Overtime Status

Non-Exempt: Eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

$41,000 - $50,000

Hours per week

40

Review Date

7/10/2026

Additional Information

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.

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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, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military 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.

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Each agency within the Commonwealth of Virginia is dedicated to recruiting, supporting, and maintaining a competent and diverse work force. Equal Opportunity Employer