Senior Lab/Research Technician - Microbiology and Immunology

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Senior Research Technician to join our research laboratory in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at VCU Health and Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Our laboratory focuses on Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy, exploring both innate and adaptive immune pathways that contribute to blunting or compromising anti-tumor immunity. Our research is aimed at designing novel approaches for cancer therapy and boosting the efficacy of current immunotherapies.

This position will work directly with the Principal Investigator (PI) to execute key experiments, generate critical preliminary data for grant applications (including NIH funding), and co-author high-impact research articles. The ideal candidate will also perform translational analyses utilizing unique human cancer patient samples obtained through close collaborations with scientists at Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center. This is an exceptional opportunity for an ambitious researcher looking to build a strong scientific record and generate data for authored publications.

• →Experimental Execution & Molecular Protocols: Independently execute routine and advanced molecular biology techniques, including DNA/RNA extraction (from tissues, biofluids, and primary cell populations), PCR, RT-qPCR, Western blotting, ELISA, and standard molecular cloning/manipulation
• →Translational Research Support: Process and analyze clinical tumor and blood specimens from cancer patients in collaboration with Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center physician-scientists
• →In Vivo, in vitro & Cellular Phenotyping (Preferred): Assist with murine tumor models, tissue processing, and immune cell phenotyping using multiparameter flow cytometry (FACS)
• →Data Analysis & Scientific Output: Maintain precise experimental records, analyze data, troubleshoot technical assays, and contribute directly to figures and data generation for grant proposals and peer-reviewed scientific publications
• →Laboratory Management & Upkeep: Oversee general laboratory operations, including maintaining reagent/supply inventories, ordering supplies, managing laboratory safety protocols, maintaining the mouse colonies, genotyping and coordinating routine maintenance and calibration of essential laboratory equipment
• →Communication & Team Collaboration: Maintain open, professional, and clear oral/written communication with the PI, lab members, and collaborative teams. Present data clearly in lab meetings and departmental forums

Minimum Qualifications

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent required. Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Molecular Biology, Immunology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, or a related Life Sciences discipline.
• Experience: Minimum of 3 years of hands-on, post-degree wet-bench research laboratory experience (or equivalent combination of education and experience).
• Core Technical Competencies: Demonstrated proficiency and independent capability in:
• DNA and RNA isolation/extraction from diverse sample types (tissues, cell lines, primary cells) and nucleic acid quality control.

• PCR and Reverse Transcription Quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR).

• Protein detection techniques, specifically Western Blotting and ELISA.

• Essential fundamental molecular biology procedures
• 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

• Master's degree in Immunology, Cancer Biology, Molecular Biology, or related field with 2–4+ years of relevant research experience
• In Vivo, in vitro / Immunology Experience: Experience handling mice, establishing tumor models, and performing immune cell phenotyping via multiparameter flow cytometry (FACS)
• Imaging: Experience with fluorescence microscopy or confocal imaging is a plus
• Publications: A track record of contributions to research projects with a strong motivation to generate high-quality preliminary data for primary and co-authored manuscript publications
• Attributes: Strong organizational skills, rigorous record-keeping abilities, self-motivation, and the capacity to troubleshoot workflows independently under the guidance of the PI

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