Lab Specialist, Li Lab

The Department of Family Medicine at the University of Virginia seeks a Lab Specialist to assist with research that examines how different biological, environmental, and lifestyle factors influence the development of colon cancer. The Lab Specialist will play an important role in working with the Principal Investigators and research staff to plan, implement, and evaluate clinical and population research projects.


The Lab Specialist will provide technical lab support by performing high quality lab and research related tasks and will have the authority to adapt methods and procedures to meet the needs of research. Responsibilities will include performing daily activities without supervision; their longer-term assignments require greater oversight, and training others on work processes and policies.

• Recruit, screen, and enroll study participants who meet research criteria. Collect demographic and lifestyle information through scripted interviews and answer general questions.
• Obtain informed consent from study participants and maintain telephone contact. Notify Principal Investigator and supervisor of subject status.
• Work with doctors and nursing staff at the UVA Endoscopy Clinic to collect patient samples and bring back to the lab for processing.
• Collect and enter subject data into clinical databases (e.g., REDCap) and manage the clinical database adhering to proper research protocols. Keep complete logs and track participants.
• Process and prepare laboratory bio-specimens according to research needs (e.g., taking aliquots using pipettes). Ship laboratory specimens across institutions on dry ice. Keep bio-specimen catalogs.
• Demonstrate expertise in troubleshooting problems and recommend solutions. Perform a variety of tests requiring high degree of proficiency.
• Assist in evaluation of research methods, procedures, and techniques based on established objectives.
• Coordinates with Principal Investigator and school, department, and central administration to help ensure that research activities are performed in accordance with federal regulations and university and sponsoring agency policies and procedures.
• Provide basic assistance in analyzing data and preparing reports/graphs using Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, etc.).
• Perform library and literature research.
• Assist in instructing lab academic sections in lab methods, procedures, and safety.
• Explain work instructions and may adapt general methods and procedures in order to meet the needs of the research.
• Assist in training other staff members on procedures.

Minimum Requirements:

• Education: Bachelor's degree required. May accept combination of experience/ education/ certification in lieu of degree. Master's degree in a health-related discipline is preferred.
• Experience: 1+ year of relevant laboratory experience required. 3 years of experience preferred.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Patient-oriented /clinical research experience is preferred.
• Proficient in basic laboratory skills (e.g., pipetting, aliquoting, dry ice shipping).
• Ability to sort, compile, and manage data; working knowledge of managing clinical databases (e.g., REDCap) is preferred.
• Basic data analysis skills using Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, etc.).
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage large volumes of information.
• Demonstrated ability to learn the organization, policies and procedures associated with clinical research.

Anticipated Hiring Range: Commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Additional Details:

• This is a full-time benefited position. Learn more about UVA benefits .
• This is a restricted position, which is dependent on funding and is contingent upon funding availability.
• This position is based in Charlottesville, VA, and must be performed fully on-site.
• Background checks will be conducted on all new hires prior to employment.

This position will not consider candidates who require immigration sponsorship.

How to Apply:

Please apply online , by searching for requisition number R0081928 . Complete an application with the following documents:

• Resume
• Cover Letter explaining your previous lab experience and goals

Upload all materials into the resume submission field. You can submit multiple documents into this one field or combine them into one PDF. Applications without all required documents will not receive full consideration.

Internal applicants: Search and apply for jobs on the UVA Internal Careers website .

Reference checks will be completed by UVA's third-party partner, SkillSurvey, during the final phase of the interview. Five references will be requested, with at least three responses required.


For questions about the application process, please contact Jessica Speth at View email address on click.appcast.io .

About UVA and the Community

To learn more about UVA and in the Charlottesville area, visit UVA Life and Embark CVA .

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment .

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