Biology Lab Tech 2 or Lab Specialist

The Perlmutter Laboratory in the Biology Department at the University of Virginia's College and Graduate School of Arts & Sciences, seeks applications for a Lab and Research Technician 2 or Lab Specialist depending on the qualifications and experience of the applicant.

The Perlmutter Laboratory uses molecular and genetic techniques to study host-microbe interactions. The lab has a primary focus on the interactions between the endosymbiont, Wolbachia, and its Drosophila hosts and other microbes. The technician will work directly with Dr. Perlmutter to support both laboratory management and research initiatives.

For more information, please visit: Homepage | Department of Biology.

Job Responsibilities

• Pursuing research projects under the direct guidance of the principal investigator, which may include experiments or analyses such as:
  • Microbial infection assays in flies
  • DNA or RNA extraction, quantification, and sequencing
  • Fly embryo microinjection
  • Fly fitness or life history assays
  • Bioinformatic analyses (RNA or DNA sequencing analysis, creation of phylogeny, etc.)
• Maintaining excellent lab records using digital and traditional lab notebooks.
• Performing data visualization and statistical analysis.
• Presenting research findings at lab meetings.
• Performing general lab duties, including ordering and purchasing for the lab using the UVA Marketplace, and maintaining laboratory supplies and inventory.
• Maintaining a clean and orderly lab space.
• Preparing standard lab reagents, such as buffers, microbial growth media, and fly food.
• Maintaining Drosophila stocks and microbiological cultures.
• Teaching and supervising students and new lab members in standard lab practices as needed.
• May be asked to perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Lab and Research Technician 2

Education: Associate's degree

Experience: At least 2 years of lab experience which may include student experience. Bachelor's degree in related science will be considered in lieu of experience.

Lab Specialist

Education: Bachelor's degree.

Experience: 3 years of experience. 6 years of lab-related experience accepted in lieu of degree.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Biology or related field.
• Previous lab experience including microbiological or sterile technique, Drosophila husbandry and genetics, and/or standard molecular biology techniques.
• Proficiency with computer software, including Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel.
• Ability to work independently and as a team member.

Physical Demands

This position can spend extensive periods of time standing, squatting, or sitting while conducting experiments or caring for animals. The position also requires keyboarding and other bench work and animal procedures requiring finer finger manipulation.

Salary Range

Lab and Research Technician 2

Anticipated Hiring Range: $20.09 - $25.11 hourly commensurate with education and experience.

Lab Specialist

Anticipated Hiring Range: $21.32 - $26.56 hourly - 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 Timeline

Application review will begin after July 21, 2025.

• Background checks will be conducted on all new hires prior to employment.
• This position will not consider candidates who require immigration sponsorship at this time.

How to Apply

Please apply online, by searching for requisition number R0074290. 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 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 Dr. Jessamyn Perlmutter, at mum7qw@virginia.edu

• For 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.