The Department of Biology at the University of Virginia’s College and Graduate School of Arts & Sciences, seeks applications for two full-time laboratory technicians to support the research of Dr. Tracy Larson. The Larson Lab studies mechanisms and limits of neural regeneration.

The lab technician will work directly with Dr. Larson to support research in the lab located in the Physical Life Sciences Building. They will assist with the collection of wild animals from field sites, maintain animals and their facilities before, during and after experiments, and breeds animals for studies.  For more information, please visit: Homepage | Department of Biology.

Job Responsibilities

The successful candidate will be expected to perform the following duties: 

Perform DNA extraction, isolation, and preparation using standard molecular biology protocolsConduct PCR amplification and DNA sequencing proceduresDesign and develop primers for genetic analysis projectsExecute various genetic analyses and interpret resultsPerform tissue sectioning and prepare histological specimensConduct histological and cytometry procedures and analyze samples using appropriate staining and analytical techniquesSecure, order, and maintain laboratory supplies and reagentsPerform routine maintenance and calibration of experimental equipmentClean and sterilize laboratory equipment, glassware, and work areasMaintain experimental cages and ensure proper animal housing conditionsCollect, enter, and organize experimental data using appropriate software systemsAnalyze experimental data and prepare summary reportsTranscribe and analyze audio and video recordings of behavioral observationsCreate data presentations for research meetings

Minimum Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent

Experience: At least 1 year of lab experience, which may include student experience.  Bachelor’s degree will be considered in lieu of experience

Licensure: None Required

Preferred Qualifications

Experience handling and caring for animalsExperience managing and analyzing data is preferred.Bachelor’s degree in Biology or a related field is preferred.

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 and animal procedures requiring fine finger manipulation.  

The anticipated hiring range is $19.00 –$21.00, commensurate with education and experience.This is a non-exempt-level, benefited position. Learn more about UVA 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.

To learn more about UVA and in the Charlottesville area, visit UVA Life and Embark CVA.

Application review will begin after August 14, 2025.

Background checks will be conducted on all new hires prior to employment.This position will not consider candidates who require immigration sponsorship now or in the future.

Please apply online, by searching for requisition number R0074818. Complete an application with the following documents:  

Resume Cover Letter

Upload all materials into the resume submission field. You can submit multiple documents into this one field or combine them into one PDF.   Applications without all required documents will not receive full consideration.

Internal applicants: Apply through your Workday profile by searching “Find Jobs.”

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 responses required. 

Contact

For questions about the position, please contact Tracy Larson, Assistant Professor, at tal8d@virginia.eduFor questions about the application process, please contact Rich Haverstrom, Academic Recruiter at rkh6j@virginia.edu

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Click here to read more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.