Lab/Research Intern - Neuroscience and Anatomy

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Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) School of Medicine is a premier academic medical center located in the heart of Richmond. Accounting for almost half of VCU’s sponsored research, the School of Medicine is internationally recognized for patient care and education. Virginia Commonwealth University is an equal opportunity employer.

Unit

School Of Medicine MBU

Department

Neuroscience & Anatomy

Department Summary

In the Department of Neuroscience & Anatomy, research is one of our core tenets. With traditions anchored in the anatomical disciplines, our identity has evolved to reside in modern neuroscience, where our dedicated faculty and students engage in state-of-the-art research and scholarly activity with clinical translation potential in conditions ranging from anxiety to epilepsy to Alzheimer’s.

With labs and grant-funded projects led by our full-time department faculty and affiliate faculty in other academic units across VCU, we’re proud to contribute to the field by conducting innovative research the following focus areas: Central Nervous System Circuit Function, Central Nervous System Injury and Repair, Educational scholarship and Practice, Glial Cell Biology, and Molecular Mechanisms of Neuropsychiatric Disorders.

Position Description

Join a cutting-edge molecular biology and gene therapy lab focused on developing targeted delivery systems for CRISPR/Cas editors. This internship offers hands-on experience in high-impact research areas, including in vivo CAR immunotherapy, HIV eradication strategies, and investigating the role and mechanism of NIBP/TRAPPC9 in neurodevelopmental disorders and neurodegenerative diseases. The successful candidate will support laboratory operations while gaining exposure to advanced genome editing and viral/non-viral delivery platforms.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Assist in the design and validation of CRISPR/Cas9 constructs and delivery vehicles
• Support cell culture maintenance and perform molecular biology techniques (e.g., PCR, gel electrophoresis, cloning)
• Assist with data collection and analysis for ongoing gene therapy projects including bioinformatics and biostatistics
• Maintain accurate laboratory notebooks and follow all safety protocols
• Participate in weekly lab meetings and contribute to literature reviews

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong interest in gene editing, immunotherapy, or neuroscience research
• Detail-oriented with the ability to follow complex experimental protocols
• Effective communication skills and a collaborative mindset for a team environment
• Critical thinking and problem-solving

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Currently enrolled as an undergraduate student (preferably in Biology, Neuroscience, Biomedical Engineering, or a related field)
• Completion of foundational coursework in biology and chemistry
• Basic understanding of molecular biology concepts
• 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 hourly employee at VCU

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience in a research laboratory setting
• Familiarity with cell culture or basic DNA/RNA techniques
• Completion of upper-level coursework in genetics or neurobiology

Salary Range: $18-$22/hr

Benefits : All VCU employee types are eligible for a wide array of benefits to support you during your employment at VCU. Consult the benefits website for information on benefits eligibility according to employee type.

FLSA Exemption Status: Non-Exempt

Hours per Week: 29

Flexible Work Arrangement: Fully Onsite