Advertising Summary: Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) School of Medicine is a premier academic medical center located in the heart of Richmond. Accounting for almost half of VCU’s sponsored research, the School of Medicine is internationally recognized for patient care and education. Virginia Commonwealth University is an equal opportunity employer.

Unit: School Of Medicine

Department: Pharmacology and Toxicology

Department Summary: The Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology of Virginia Commonwealth University is committed to an outstanding education of professional and graduate students as well as to cutting edge research. The atmosphere of the department is one of congeniality and collaboration. Alumni of the department have achieved prominent roles in academia, industry, and government. The goal of the department is to contribute to improved health through a better understanding of the mechanism of action of safer and more effective therapies. The education of graduate students and postdoctoral fellows who have the potential to become independent, highly regarded scientists and excellent teachers in pharmacology is a priority.

Duties & Responsibilities:

Lab Technicians/Specialists perform a variety of routine, technical, and administrative responsibilities in support of research at the university. This position will conduct laboratory studies with the nematode C. elegans to characterize neuronal mechanisms of action of drugs of abuse. Tasks will include the maintenance and construction of C. elegans strains, genetic crosses, characterization of mutant phenotypes including behavioral analyses, data handling, and analysis of gene function. Techniques include microscopy, genetics, PCR and gel electrophoresis, computer-assisted locomotion and behavior tracking, plasmid construction, and numerous methods specific to C. elegans biology. Responsibilities will also include general management of the laboratory reagents, solutions and culture media.

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications

• A thorough understanding of classical genetics
• High degree of motivation and interest in learning how genetic and molecular methods can be applied to study underlying neurobiology of alcohol intoxication and tolerance in C. elegans
• Good communication skills, strong work ethic, and the ability to conduct thoughtful, independent experiments
• Prior research experience and strong grades in relevant coursework
• Demonstrated ability to work in and foster an environment of respect, professionalism and civility with a population of faculty, staff, and students from all backgrounds and experiences, or a commitment to do so as a staff member at VCU

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in genetics, neuroscience, molecular biology or a closely related field 
• Experience with model genetic organisms
• Prior experience with C. elegans

Salary Range: $40-$45k

Benefits: All full-time university staff are eligible for VCU’s robust benefits package that includes comprehensive health benefits, paid annual and holiday leave, generous tuition benefits, retirement planning and savings options, tax-deferred annuity and cash match programs, employee discounts, well-being resources, abundant opportunities for career development and advancement, and more.

FLSA Exemption Status: Non-Exempt

Hours per Week: 40

Restricted Position: Yes

ORP Eligible: No

Flexible Work Arrangement: Fully Onsite

University Job Title: 34051-3 - Lab/Research Technician 1-3 

Contact Information:

Contact Email: SOMHR@vcuhealth.org