Lab Research Specialist
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, VA
Full-time
Research
Posted on May 15, 2023
Mission of SON:
The mission of the School of Nursing is to shape the future of nursing through the power of education, discovery, and collaboration.
Position Responsibilities:
VCU School of Nursing invites applicants to apply for the position of Lab Research Specialist. The Lab Research Specialist position provides technical laboratory support for processing of multiple sample types and carrying out assays performed in the lab under the direction of the Biobehavioral Research Lab (BRL) Director, in the School of Nursing Office of Research, Scholarship and Innovation. Such assays include but are not limited to: DNA and RNA based assays such as SNP genotyping, DNA methylation, Nanostring, and qPCR assays, ELISA protein assays, chemiluminescence and fluorescence-based quantitation assays, and tissue culture experiments. The Lab Research Specialist will also order lab supplies and consult with the BRL Director and Post-award Business Manager to ensure Principal Investigator indices are charged and tracked appropriately. There are opportunities for long term growth and development in this position.
Responsibilities include:
- Provide competent, timely, and consistent technical support. Accurately and precisely prepare, process, and maintain sample inventory and perform assays.
- Continuously seek, champion, and evaluate techniques and technological opportunities that will improve quality, efficiency, or scalability of assigned molecular assays.
- Interpret and record assay results in lab books and electronic files. Monitor and maintain adherence to all research and routine protocols.
- Continuously interact and communicate with PI regarding any problems that may arise.
- Maintain laboratory supplies, including purchasing of supplies on project index.
- Creates purchase orders in VCU Banner, receives order in Banner upon receipt, and ensures prompt and accurate payment to all vendors by the submission of timely invoices to Procurement
- Perform other duties as assigned.
- Associate's degree in relevant field (Life Sciences, Chemistry, or other science) or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
- Previous laboratory experience.
- Due to the handling of human samples, this position requires a Hepatitis B vaccination. Candidate must obtain vaccination upon hire.
- Detailed oriented, highly organized, good math skills.
- Excellent organizational skills, lab administrative skills, and good lab electronic and notebook documentation are required.
- Ability to troubleshoot problems and ability to interpret data.
- Ability to perform assigned work unsupervised, yet seek investigator collaboration when needed.
- Must have excellent interpersonal skills and be able to get along with, and communicate effectively (both verbally and in writing), with project PIs, project team members and other laboratory personnel.
- Demonstrated experience working in and fostering a diverse faculty, staff, and student environment, or commitment to do so as a staff member at VCU.
- Bachelor's degree in relevant field (e.g., biology/chemistry or Med Tech).
- Proficiency in aseptic and sterile techniques, operation of laboratory equipment, laboratory best safety practice with human tissues, fluids, and blood products.
- Experience with tissue culture and nucleic acid-based and protein assays preferred.
- Experience with biochemical techniques.
All full-time university staff are eligible for VCU's robust benefits package that includes: comprehensive health benefits, paid annual and holiday leave granted up front, retirement planning and savings options, tax-deferred annuity and cash match programs, generous tuition benefit, employee discounts, well-being resources, abundant opportunities for career development and advancement, and more. Learn more about VCU's benefits here.
Position will remain open until filled, with a priority application date of June 11, 2023
Salary Range: $45,000-$52,000
Position Details:
Department: School of Nursing Office of Research
Employment Type: UF - University Employee FT
Restricted Status: Yes
FTE: 1
Exemption Status: Non-Exempt
University Title: Lab Technician (34051)
ORP Eligibility: No
Contact Information:
Contact Name: Bruna Soria Galvarro
Contact Email: soriagalvaba@vcu.edu