The Research Assistant will support research activities within the Wright Laboratory, with primary responsibilities focused on molecular biology, synthetic biology, and biotechnology research projects. The position will contribute to the design, execution, analysis, and documentation of research studies while also assisting with laboratory operations, undergraduate training, and project coordination. Initial responsibilities will include continued development and characterization of engineered yeast strains and genetic libraries, with opportunities to contribute to a broad range of ongoing research initiatives in synthetic biology, metabolic engineering, plant biotechnology, and related fields.

• Bachelor's degree in Biological Systems Engineering, Biological Sciences, Biotechnology, Bioengineering, or a closely related field; or equivalent years of training and experience.
• Experience with molecular biology, microbiology, and/or synthetic biology techniques.
• Strong organizational, communication, and record-keeping skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research environment.

• Master's degree in Biological Systems Engineering, Biological Sciences, Biotechnology, Bioengineering, or a closely related field
• Experience with yeast genetics, microbial strain engineering, or synthetic biology.
• Experience training or mentoring undergraduate researchers.
• Experience with laboratory management, inventory control, or research project coordination.
• Experience with data analysis, automation platforms, or bioinformatics tools.

4

Non-Exempt: Eligible for overtime

Restricted

45,000 - 55,000

40

07/30/2026

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

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.

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