Laboratory Technician (Pickrell Lab)

Job Description The Pickrell laboratory in the School of Neuroscience at Virginia Tech is looking for one responsible and well-organized laboratory technician who can independently oversee research activities within the laboratory as well as assist group members with their projects. Additional responsibilities include the maintenance of laboratory stocks, databases and inventory of laboratory supplies as well as the general organization of the laboratory. The lab focuses on understanding how mitochondria and selective autophagy pathways contribute to disease as well behave mechanistically in normal physiological conditions. We use mouse and cell culture to address these questions. We combine a range of approaches, including genetics, molecular biology, biochemistry, confocal and live imaging, and behavioral analyses. See the lab website (for more details. The candidate will have the opportunity to author or co-author publications, and depending on their background and experience, craft their own research projects. Training and guidance and will be provided for those aspects of the job in which the candidate is lacking sufficient expertise. Required Qualifications • BS degree in biology, molecular biology, neuroscience or a related field • At least 1 year of hands-on experience in molecular biology (including DNA and RNA handling); ability to independently perform molecular cloning • Ability to manage time, organize data and keep accurate lab records • Ability to efficiently use computer software • Ability to work both independently and as part of a team • Good communication skills • Curiosity and enthusiasm for science Preferred Qualifications • Previous laboratory experience in a biomedical research laboratory • Experience and knowledge about cell and molecular biology and mitochondrial biology • Potential candidates should have a fundamental understanding of standard laboratory equipment ranging from centrifuges to PCR. • Experience with live imaging and confocal microscopy is a plus Pay Band 3 Overtime Status Non-Exempt: Eligible for overtime Appointment Type Restricted Salary InformationHours per week 40 Review DateAdditional Information The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check. About Virginia Tech 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. Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance. These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development. Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law. If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact (insert name) at (insert email address) during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event. Each agency within the Commonwealth of Virginia is dedicated to recruiting, supporting, and maintaining a competent and diverse work force. Equal Opportunity Employer

Created: 2026-03-04