What are the responsibilities and job description for the Research Laboratory Specialist, Biology position at The Rector & Visitors of the University of Virginia?
The Department of Biology at the University of Virginia (UVA) seeks applications for a Research Laboratory Specialist to work in the laboratory of Dr. Michael Timko.
The ideal candidate will join a team of researchers working on plant functional genomics and synthetic biology. The individual should be self-directed and able to work independently. They will have demonstrated skills in basic molecular biology and cell culture techniques, including the ability to carry out gene cloning, gene transformation, and gene expression analysis using PCR, qRT-PCR, immunoblot analysis, and RNA seq. Must be able to do basic bio/chemistry work (e.g., buffer and media preparation), have basic statistical knowledge, and the ability to do basic bioinformatic analysis and computational work. Prior experience with plant growth and cell culture is a plus but not essential. Must have the interest and ability to work with undergraduate and graduate students andassistin various research support roles with visiting scientists and scholars.
Responsibilities
Order laboratory reagents andmaintainlaboratory stocks.
Schedule andmaintainrecords of equipment/facilities maintenance
Assistin developing plans for research projects and discuss the interpretation of results
Provide written reports, keep data records, andassistin the preparation of scientific manuscripts for publication as necessary and requested.
Assistgreenhouse staff with the maintenance of plant materials as needed.
Minimum Qualifications
Education: Bachelor's degree in a scientific discipline, preferably biology, biochemistry, and plant sciences.
Experience: 3 years of relevant experience.
Preferred Qualifications
Two or more years of laboratory experience beyond the classroom experience
Prior experience in a lab technician role and supervisory experience.
Ability to do basic biochemistry, molecularbiologyand cell culture (as described above)
Ability to carry out basic molecular biology (gene cloning, gene transformation, and gene expression analysis.
Physical Demands
This position can spend extensive periods of time standing and squatting while conducting experiments or caring for animals. Also requires keyboarding and other bench work requiring finer finger manipulation.
Salary Range
Theanticipatedhiring range is $47,000-$49,000,commensuratewith education and experience.
Position Type & Work Location
This isan exempt-level,benefitedposition. Learn more aboutUVA benefits.
This is a restricted position, which is dependent on funding and is contingent upon funding availability.
This position is based in Charlottesville, VA, and must be performed fully on-site.
About UVA and the Community
To learn more about UVA and in the Charlottesville area, visitUVA LifeandEmbark CVA.
Application Timeline
Application review will begin afterJuly 15, 2026.
Additional Requirements
Background checks will be conducted on all new hires prior to employment.
This positionwill notconsider candidates whorequireimmigrationsponsorshipnowor in the future.
How to Apply
Please applyonline, by searching for requisition numberR0085144.
Internal applicantsmay search and apply for jobs on theUVA Internal Careers website.
Complete an application with the following documents:
Resume
Cover Letter
Upload all materials into the resume submissionfield. You cansubmitmultiple documents intothis onefield or combine them into one PDF.Applications without allrequireddocuments will notreceivefull consideration.
Reference Check Process
Reference checks will be completed by UVA's third-party partner, SkillSurvey, during the final phase of the interview. Five references will be requested, with at least three responsesrequired.
Contact
For questions about the application process, please contactJonFreeman, jf2sw@virginia.edu.
The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.
The University of Virginia, including the UVA Health System which represents the UVA Medical Center, Schools of Medicine and Nursing, UVA Physician’s Group and the Claude Moore Health Sciences Library, are fundamentally committed to the diversity of our faculty and staff. We believe diversity is excellence expressing itself through every person's perspectives and lived experiences. We are equal opportunity and affirmative action employers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, national or ethnic origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, veteran or military status, and family medical or genetic information.
Salary : $47 - $49