Lab Tech or Specialist Varying Levels

One important characteristic common to neurodegenerative disease (ND) is altered metabolic profiles. This forms the basis for the research in the Flowers Lab (flower slab.org), which is focused on understanding the early stages of ND pathogenesis, and using this knowledge for the effective diagnosis and treatment of these devastating diseases.

We use human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and advanced technologies including mass spectrometry to better understand the metabolic differences that occur at a cellular level. We are searching for a new lab member to aid us with this important work that is currently funded for one year.

This individual will be working under Dr. Harvey Fernandez, an Assistant Professor in the Flowers Lab. They will be responsible for culturing iPSC derived astrocytes and microglia and carrying out cell, biochemical and molecular biology assays. The candidate will work with other members of the group invested in this project to maintain cells, carry out experiments, analyze data, as well as documenting and reporting on results to the group.

A smaller part of this role will involve routine but important lab maintenance to contribute to the smooth functioning of the lab.

The individual hired for this position will work closely with Dr. Fernandez as well as Dr. Flowers and other lab members. They will attend lab meetings weekly and project meetings weekly or more often as necessary. They will be trained and receive guidance on a day‑to‑day basis to facilitate the goals of the project and ensure their training. The individual hired is expected to interact professionally and collegially with all lab members including graduate and undergraduate students, treating all lab members with respect and consideration.

The hired individual can expect to work in a respectful, open and supportive environment focused on doing good science. There will be many opportunities to learn a range of lab skills.

The successful candidate should possess excellent attention to detail and strong problem solving and record‑keeping skills. They will be a clear and open communicator and be motivated to learn new laboratory skills and contribute to the goals of the lab. They will be careful in the lab with their own work and the work of others. Knowledge of basic cell biology and biochemistry is required.

Experience with cell culture would be preferred. Any experience with biochemical or cell‑based assays and molecular biology techniques such as PCR would be highly advantageous. Any previous experience in neuroscience or neurodegenerative disease research would also be an advantage.

• 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 position has a term limit of 1 year after which continued employment will depend on department need and funding.
• 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 R0080957
.

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

• 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.