Research Assistant

Overview The Hourigan Lab focuses on bringing precision medicine approaches to the care of patients suffering from the rare, highly fatal, blood cancer Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). Based at the Virginia Tech Cancer Research Center in Washington DC and a member of the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech Carilion, the laboratory performs translational research developing high‑sensitivity genomic tools for the characterization of measurable residual disease (MRD) in patients with AML to predict and prevent relapse. This work includes multiple governmental and private sector partnerships and leadership of the national prospective clinical protocol “MEASURE” to validate and implement AML MRD testing nationwide. Position The lab is looking for a full‑time Research Assistant to assist with current and ongoing research projects. This role provides hands‑on learning in a professional research laboratory. Typically, a Research Assistant supports a scientist in the performance of various recruitment, technical, and data‑collection activities for research or laboratory programs. The responsibilities range from entry‑ to advanced‑level and involve working collaboratively and independently to collect and organize data for grant‑funded research projects. Responsibilities Advanced biospecimen processing, including handling of diverse clinical sample types (whole blood, bone marrow aspirates, plasma, and cell pellets) in accordance with SOPs. Genomic DNA extraction utilizing validated protocols tailored to sample type, ensuring high yield and integrity for downstream molecular applications. Nucleic acid quantification and quality assessment using fluorescence‑based and spectrophotometric methods such as Qubit, PicoGreen, and NanoDrop. Comprehensive documentation of all processed biospecimens, including experimental manifests and systematic recording of results in shared data repositories to ensure traceability and data integrity. Sample accessioning, tracking, and inventory management, including organization of biospecimens in cryogenic storage systems with meticulous documentation. Biorepository management, receipt, labeling, cataloging, and long‑term storage of clinical samples under controlled conditions. Foundational cell culture techniques: aseptic handling, maintenance of mammalian cell lines, passaging, and monitoring of cell viability and confluency. Routine laboratory equipment maintenance and decontamination, including scheduled cleaning, calibration checks, and adherence to laboratory safety and operational standards. Maintenance and tracking of office and laboratory supply inventories to ensure consistent availability of essential materials. Active participation in research team meetings to report study progress, improve data collection processes, and contribute to problem‑solving efforts. Required Qualifications Demonstrated organizational skills and/or experience with data management. Desire to succeed in a fast‑paced research environment with numerous duties. Attention to detail, excellent written and oral communication skills. Ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality and professionalism. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Preferred Qualifications Coursework or training in genetics, biology, life‑sciences, or related field, or equivalent training and experience. Experience in data collection and entry. Experience in genetics, biology, life‑sciences, computational, or related research areas. Experience with basic laboratory protocols, including proper handling of specimens, data collection, assessments, and data management. Pay Band : 3 Overtime Status : Non‑Exempt – Eligible for overtime Appointment Type : Restricted Salary Information : Starting at $50,000, commensurate with experience Hours per week : 40 Review Date : 6/1/26 Additional Information : The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check. EEO Statement 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. If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Noah Rader at View email address on click.appcast.io during regular business hours at least ten business days prior to the event. #J-18808-Ljbffr Virginia Tech