Research Technician
RESEARCH TECHNICIAN
Crowther Laboratory
Up to 40 hrs a week
Anticipated Start Date: May–September 2026
About the Lab
The Crowther Laboratory conducts cutting-edge neuroscience research. Our team is collaborative, rigorous, and committed to training and mentoring at all levels. We are seeking a motivated Research Technician to join our growing team and contribute to ongoing research projects under the joint mentorship of Dr. Andrew Crowther (PI) and Dr. Victoria Brings.
Position Overview
The Research Technician will support behavioral pharmacology experiments, animal procedures, and wet-lab protocols. This role works under general PI supervision with increasing independence over time, resolving most standard issues independently and referring complex questions to the PI as needed.
Key Responsibilities
•Conduct and assist with animal work, including surgery, drug administration, behavioral testing, and tissue collection (mouse models)
•Perform tissue processing, immunostaining, and quantification
•Conduct and analyze behavioral pharmacology experiments under PI supervision
•Maintain detailed and accurate laboratory records and experimental logs
•Manage laboratory supplies, reagent inventories, and equipment maintenance schedules
•Assist other staff and students with wet-lab protocols and data organization; provide training and support for lab procedures as needed
•Assist with preparation of manuscripts, reports, and grant-related documents
•Participate in lab meetings and journal clubs
•Comply with all institutional animal care and safety protocols
Required Qualifications
•Bachelor’s degree in Neuroscience, Biology, Pharmacology, Psychology, or a related field
•Prior experience in a research laboratory setting (undergraduate research counts)
•Experience with experimental animal models and/or cell cultures
•Demonstrated ability to learn new techniques quickly and work independently
•Strong attention to detail and commitment to reproducible science
•Excellent written and verbal communication skills
•Knowledge of safe laboratory practices and commitment to lab safety
•Demonstrated commitment to fostering a respectful, professional, and inclusive work environment
Preferred Qualifications
•Hands-on experience with rodent handling and behavioral testing (e.g., open field, rotarod, von Frey)
•Familiarity with pharmacological injection techniques (IP, SC, IT)
•Experience with data analysis software (GraphPad Prism, MATLAB, R, or Python)
•Analytical and problem-solving skills with experience troubleshooting experimental protocols
About Virginia Commonwealth University
VCU is a major public research university in Richmond, Virginia, with an annual research enterprise exceeding $500 million. The medical campus is home to a thriving research community spanning basic science, translational medicine, and clinical research. Richmond offers an affordable cost of living, a vibrant food and arts scene, and easy access to the Blue Ridge Mountains and Mid-Atlantic coast.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Anticipated start date is May–September 2026. Early submission is strongly encouraged.
VCU is an equal opportunity employer.