Lab Tech​/Specialist - Brandebura Lab

The Brandebura lab, at the University of Virginia School of Medicine Department of Neuroscience, seeks candidates for a Lab Tech/Lab Specialist varying levels depending on experience. The Brandebura Laboratory studies astrocyte dysfunction in neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders like Down Syndrome and Alzheimer’s Disease. We are focused on how to target astrocytes, and their signaling to other glial cells and the vasculature, to improve neuroinflammation, blood‑brain‑barrier and synapse dysfunction.

We utilize mouse models and primary cell culture to test biological mechanisms.

• Animal colony and protocols: The candidate will manage the animal colony, perform genotyping, and keep accurate records of the mouse census. In collaboration with Dr. Brandebura, the candidate will make requested changes to the animal and biosafety protocols.
• Lab Inventory and Stocking: The candidate will create lab inventories, stock the lab, order supplies, and prepare solutions and buffers.
• Conducting and analyzing experimental data: The candidate will collect experimental data, including microscopy imaging of brain slices, cell culture experiments, and behavioral analysis on mice. Prior experience with mouse handling is desired but not required; the candidate must be willing to work with mice. The candidate will also participate in analysis and present data in lab meetings. Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint is required.
  
  Experience with statistical analysis and graphing software is a plus.
• Optimization and maintenance of lab protocols: Under supervision of Dr. Brandebura, the candidate will optimize and archive lab protocols for later use and will keep a detailed lab notebook that others can follow.
• Collaboration and training: The lab includes multiple trainees at all levels; the ideal candidate must work as a team, create an inclusive environment, and be willing to train new lab members on existing protocols.

• Education:
  
  High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience:
  
  At least 1 year of lab experience, which may include student experience required.

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 finer finger manipulation.

• 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 March 2, 2026
.

• Background checks and pre‑employment health screenings will be conducted on all new hires prior to employment.

Please apply online, by searching for requisition number R00 8093 4.

Internal applicants may search and apply for jobs on the UVA Internal Careers website.

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.

Reference checks will be completed by UVA’s third‑party partner, Skill Survey, during the final phase of the interview. Five references will be requested, with at least three responses required.

For questions about the application process, please contact Jon Freeman, jf2sw.

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