Lab/Research Technician - Pharmacology and Toxicology

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 MBU

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:

We are seeking a highly motivated laboratory technician with
experience in cell culture and PCR techniques. The ideal candidate
should be motivated to learn newer techniques, including single
cell electrophysiology. The research laboratory is focused on
gastrointestinal microbiome and gut-brain axis. Responsibilities
will include preparing experimental materials, preparing and
maintaining cell cultures. Candidate should have strong technical,
organizational and communication skills.

Core Responsibilities:

• Preparing and maintaining cell cultures and carrying out

experiments that include protein isolation and qPCR

• Learning patch clamp electrophysiology and carrying out

experiments that complement laboratory research studies

• Maintaining animal colonies and ordering laboratory

supplies

• Maintaining laboratory equipment

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Bachelor degree in a related field
• At least 1 year of lab experience, which may include student

experience

• Must have demonstrated experience of cell culture and PCR
• 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

• 2-3 years in a lab setting is preferred
• Hands-on experience with maintaining animal colonies

Salary Range: $40,000-$45,000

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: This is a restricted position with no set
end date; continued employment is dependent upon project need,
availability of funding, and performance.

ORP Eligible: No

Flexible Work Arrangement: Fully Onsite

University Job Title: 34051-34053 - Lab/Research Technician
1-3

Contact Information:
Contact Name: Dr. Hamid
Akbarali, Ph.D.

Contact Email: hamid.akbarali@vcuhealth.org