Job Description

Research Assistant

The Johnstone Lab at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at VTC is seeking a Research Assistant to complete general laboratory operations. The focus of the Johnstone Lab includes the study of signaling mechanisms, protein trafficking, regulation of vascular disease, design and testing of novel therapeutics. Techniques used include protein synthesis and analysis, qPCR, western blotting, immunofluorescence, calcium imaging, flow cytometry, intravital microscopy and in vivo techniques. The lab uses a combination of cell culture, rodent and human models of disease. The research assistant will be responsible for laboratory maintenance, care of the animal colony, and in-vitro data collection. This position involves maintaining daily operations while in compliance with university and state regulations. Additional duties will include supply ordering/management, coordination of experiments, assistance with preparing presentation data, and contribution to lab meetings. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated and detail-oriented person who enjoys interacting with others, being a key part of a diverse and active scientific environment, learning new techniques, and managing multiple project duties. This position will provide an excellent opportunity to gain research experience in Biology and Chemistry.

Required Qualifications:

• Demonstrated organizational skills and acknowledgement of safety protocols.

• Ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality and professionalism.

• Demonstrated communication skills.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Ability to manage multiple tasks and exceptional time-management skills.

• Previous experience in a biomedical research laboratory.

• Ability to work with small animals and monitor animal welfare.

• Demonstrated proficiency with Word, Excel, and PowerPoint or equivalent.

• Ability to generate and utilize computer databases.

• Must be able to sit or stand at a lab bench for extended periods of time.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Coursework or degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry or a related field.

• Previous laboratory experience with one or more of the following laboratory techniques: Genotyping, DNA cloning, protein analysis using immunohistochemistry and western blotting, gene expression analysis using qPCR, tissue culture of primary cells, fluorescence microscopy.

• Demonstrated experience working with small animals including handling, restraining, tissue harvesting, genotyping and monitoring animal welfare.

• Certified to or ability to become certified to work in a BSL2 facility.

Pay Band: 3

Overtime Status: Non-Exempt: Eligible for overtime

Appointment Type: Restricted

Salary Information: Starting salary range at $42,000. Commensurate with experience.

Hours per week: 40

Review Date: 9/16/2026

Additional 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 Brittany Shelton at sheltb@vtc.vt.edu 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

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