"Lab Technician - Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology"

Virginia Commonwealth University is an equal opportunity employer.

The Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology is actively seeking a Lab Technician to assist in the Lab of Dr. Damaj.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Behavioral studies: Evaluate mice in different pain studies. Administer drugs orally, subcutaneously and i.p
• Reward and drinking studies: Alcohol, opiates and nicotine drinking studies and conditioned place preference test in mice. May have to come some week-ends. Use of the two-bottle choice test and vaping model in mice for reward studies. Measure spontaneous activity, light dark boxes, rotarod test and rectal temperature
• Data reduction, statistical analysis, graphic presentation: Complete analysis of all experiments on a weekly basis. Have data ready to present at weekly meetings
• General laboratory maintenance, clerical and library work: Perform as instructed without delay or error. Order supplies and animals as needed
• Perform behavioral work with rodents and study reward, dependence and pain by using in vivo models
• Compile results and report to supervisor

Required Qualifications:

• Required a B.S. in Chemistry or Biology or equivalent
• Required Previous research lab experience in a research lab setting (as student or employee) and general lab skills (weighing, making solutions, etc.).
• Required experience with rodents and lab animals
• 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:

• Knows how to administer drugs to rodent lab animals
• Knowledge in behavioral models of pain
• Willingness to learn and use behavioral models of reward and dependence
• Good communication skills

VCU is transitioning to a new application system beginning October 1, 2025. If you apply before that date, you may be asked to resubmit your application in the new system after the system is live. Clear instructions will be provided at that time. We appreciate your understanding during this transition and look forward to reviewing your application.

This is a restricted position with no set end date; continued employment is dependent upon project need, availability of funding, and performance.

University Job Code: 34051-34053

ORP Eligible: No

VCU is committed to hiring veterans! VCU will include a veteran's period(s) of military service in the calculation of their annual leave accrual rate. This may provide veterans with an increased leave accrual!

Salary Range: $40,000-$43,000

Position Details:

Department: Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology

Employment Type: UF - University Employee FT

Restricted Status: Yes

FTE: 100

Exemption Status: Non-Exempt