Research Laboratory Technician

Job Description The Viral Genetics and Host Interactions Laboratory in the Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine seeks a Research Laboratory Technician to support NIH-funded research on mosquito-borne viruses, including Zika, chikungunya, Mayaro, Sindbis, and Semliki Forest virus. The technician will initiate and carry out experiments across virology, vector biology, and molecular biology, including 2D and 3D cell culture, mouse infection studies, mosquito rearing and transmission experiments, and nucleic acid sequencing. The position includes compiling and analyzing data, interpreting results, general laboratory maintenance, and supporting other lab members' experiments. We are looking for someone with strong initiative and a real desire to learn, who is open to constructive feedback, and who treats colleagues both inside and outside the lab — including animal care and housekeeping staff — with respect. Collaboration and generosity toward labmates are core to how this group works. A one-year commitment is required. Technicians who perform well have a pathway to extend the position or to apply to the Biomedical and Veterinary Sciences (BMVS) graduate program; both depend on funding and performance. Required Qualifications Bachelor's or Master’s degree in microbiology, molecular biology, or related field; experience using word processing and spreadsheet software; ability to learn new procedures; strong organization skills; self-motivated, high initiative, and proactive to get things done without being told; ability to assume responsibility for your work; ability to work on more than one project simultaneously; excellent communication and interpersonal skills; strong organization, attention to detail, and accurate record-keeping. Preferred Qualifications Hands‑on experience with aseptic cell culture technique, bacterial cloning, PCR and other molecular techniques, experience with BSL‑2 virology, animal work under IACUC protocols, insectary or arthropod rearing, molecular cloning, or sequencing library preparation. Experience performing experiments and procedures involving laboratory animals. Pay Band 3; Salary Overtime Status Non-Exempt: Eligible for overtime Appointment Type Restricted Salary Information Starting at $36,501.00, commensurate with experience Hours per week 40 Review Date 10/1/2026 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. Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance. These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development. 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 Amanda Atkins at View email address on click.appcast.io during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event. #J-18808-Ljbffr Virginia Tech