Hourly Research Technician

Position Responsibilities:

The Department of Oral and Craniofacial Molecular Biology, VCU School of Dentistry is seeking applicants to fill an hourly Research Technician. This position provides research duties essential to the success of the Faculty, Postdocs and students in the Faber lab. This position will be responsible for performing mammalian cell culture, dissolving/diluting drugs, drug treating mammalian cell lines, generating stable cell lines using retro- and lenti-virus vectors, protein immunoblotting, immunoprecipitation, qPCR, as well as standard molecular biology techniques (plasmid DNA preparation, gel electrophoresis). This position will be performing routine research activities as assigned. Direct and interpret experiments. Assist in writing papers and grant applications. Devise new experiments.

• Laboratory Management: Assist in maintenance for laboratory equipment, cleaning freezers and refrigerators when needed. Participate in all laboratory and departmental meetings. Maintain and keep clean all space used in experiments
• Inventory management: Order all items required for research experiments as needed. Assist in maintaining and replenishing common chemicals and reagents as needed. Receive all training required to maintain purchasing privileges
• Laboratory Safety: Perform all duties required of Chemical Hygiene officer, including yearly CHP update. Dispose of all chemical and biological waste in compliance with university and OSHA regulations. Replace items in first aid and spill kits as needed. Assist in arranging for required inspections of equipment. Maintain certification for shipping of hazardous materials
• Laboratory experimentation: Present and discuss data in meetings. Maintain laboratory notebooks recording the experiments. Prepare scientific data for manuscripts

Required Qualifications:

• BS in the field of biology, chemistry, biochemistry, genetics, cell biology, molecular biology required
• Prior experience working in a research laboratory performing experiments (especially mammalian cell culture, dissolving/diluting drugs, drug treating mammalian cell lines, protein immunoblotting, qPCR, as well as standard molecular biology techniques (plasmid DNA preparation, gel electrophoresis)) is required
• Must be self-motivated, eager to learn and reliable
• Attention to detail in experimental techniques and record keeping is critical
• Must have excellent verbal and written communication skills and experience and ability to work independently
• Have strong organization skills and ability to maintain the regulatory documents for laboratory research
• Demonstrated experience working in and fostering a diverse faculty, staff, and student environment or commitment to do so as an employee at VCU

Preferred Qualifications:

• Masters in the field of biology, chemistry, biochemistry, genetics, cell biology, molecular biology
• Experience in ordering and purchasing equipment and supplies is preferable

Salary Range: Commensurate



Position Details:

Department: Oral and Craniofacial Biology, School of Dentistry
Employment Type: H1 - Hourly
Restricted Status: Yes, dependent upon continued funding
FTE: .725
Exemption Status: Non-Exempt



Contact Information:

Contact Name: Janet Sweeney

Contact Email: jlsweeney@vcu.edu