Senior Lab Tech, School of Medicine, Neurology

at  Virginia Commonwealth University

SUMMARY:

To join an active research laboratory in Neurology and to participate in translational
muscular dystrophy and neuromuscular research teams. This translational group is focused on
understanding the molecular pathogenesis of muscular dystrophies, on the development of therapies
for these conditions, and on developing biomarkers for use in clinical trials. This position would focus on
laboratory work that promotes these goals through preclinical drug trials and the characterization of
novel mouse models. Additionally, this position will include the performance of molecular biology
techniques such as qRT-PCR, Western blots or immunoassays, ELISAS, microscopy and/or
immunostaining. In addition, cell culture techniques such as cell passaging, luciferase assays, drug
treatments, and the transfection of cell lines is desirable.

(50%): Carry out murine preclinical trials for various muscular dystrophy model mice
This includes:
o Mouse handling, mouse colony maintenance, genotyping, functional analysis
o Keep up-to-date modifications of all IACUC protocols
o Keep up-to-date modifications of all Biosafety protocols
o Organize and implement tissue specimen collection and freezing
o Prepare samples for RNA, DNA or protein extraction and/or histological analysis
o Perform RNA extraction, cDNA synthesis and qPCR analysis using Taqman probes and a Quant
Studio 7 Pro; understand the concept of utilizing delta delta ct values to determine relative gene
expression
o Perform protein extraction, protein quantification and subsequent Western or Jess assays
(Protein Simple Analysis)
o Perform ELISAs on serum samples or lysed muscle samples
o Prepare muscle section for immunostaining or histology staining via cryosectioning
o Perform histological stains such as H&E, Sirius Red/Fast Green, or trichrome
o Perform immunofluorescence on muscle sections, image using a VS200 Slide Scanning microscope
o Perform image analysis of muscle using Image J
(30%): Project Implementation
o Help implement a data management system for the various projects in the lab o Keep meticulous records from multiple experiments
o Document procedures for new methods developed
o Keep inventory records of lab samples and reagents
o Anticipate lab reagent needs on a weekly basis
o Assist in writing/editing manuscripts
(20%): Lab Training
o Training of graduate and undergraduate students in basic laboratory practices and techniques
o Training new lab members in mouse handling
Each agency within the Commonwealth of Virginia is dedicated to recruiting, supporting, and maintaining a competent and diverse work force. Equal Opportunity Employer