Laboratory Research Operations AssistantThe Connelly Laboratory at the University of Virginia is seeking a highly motivated, detail-oriented Laboratory Research Operations Assistant to join our interdisciplinary research team. This position is ideal for candidates interested in gaining hands-on experience at the intersection of molecular biology, neuroscience, and animal behavior. The Connelly Lab conducts cutting-edge research in translational neuroepigenetics, with a focus on how DNA methylation and gene regulation shape brain development, behavior, and health across the lifespan. Our work integrates molecular biology, genomics, imaging and animal models to understand how early-life experiences-particularly birth interventions-impact the oxytocin system in mothers and offspring. We are a well-funded, collaborative, and highly productive lab, offering opportunities for meaningful scientific contribution and professional development.Position Overview The Laboratory Research Operations Assistant will work closely with Professor Jessica Connelly and lab members to support both research execution and laboratory operations. This role combines molecular biology, imaging, and animal behavior research, and lab management, making it ideal for candidates seeking a broad and immersive research experience. The successful candidate will play a key role in maintaining an active animal colony, generating molecular data, collecting imaging data and supporting experimental workflows, while also contributing to the overall functioning of a dynamic research environment.Key ResponsibilitiesMaintain and manage a small animal breeding colony, including daily husbandryConduct and record behavioral observations and analysesAssist with small animal surgical proceduresPerform tissue collection, processing, and biobankingIsolate and analyze DNA and RNA from tissues and cellsAssist with cell culture and molecular biology workflowsAssist with confocal and other imaging modalities, including neuroimagingMaintain accurate, detailed experimental records and ensure data qualityManage laboratory inventory, reagents, and suppliesEnsure compliance with institutional animal care and safety protocolsTrain and supervise undergraduate research assistantsSupport general laboratory operations, including organization, maintenance, and workflow optimizationContribute to manuscripts, grant preparation, and scientific presentationsOther duties as assignedWhat We OfferDirect mentorship from the PI and senior scientistsOpportunities for authorship on scientific publicationsExperience contributing to grant writing and experimental designOpportunities to present research at national and international conferencesA collaborative, intellectually engaging lab environmentMinimum QualificationsHigh school diploma or equivalentAt least 1 year of laboratory experience (including undergraduate research); Bachelor's degree may substitute for experiencePreferred QualificationsBachelor's degree in a life science disciplineExperience with rodent models and animal handlingBackground in animal behavior analysisExperience with dissection and/or small animal surgeryFamiliarity with DNA/RNA extraction, qPCR, or molecular biology techniquesExperience with cell cultureExperience with neuroimaging pipeline design and analysisSalary range: $19.00-$21.50/hour (commensurate with experience) Physical Demands: This position can spend extensive periods of time standing and squatting while conducting experiments or caring for animals.
Also requires keyboarding and other benchwork and animal procedures requiring fine finger manipulation. This is a restricted position; continuation is dependent on funding and satisfactory performance. This position is located in Charlottesville, Virginia. This is a full-time benefited position. For more information on the benefits at UVA, visit . Visa sponsorship is not available for this role The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment. A completed pre-employment health screen is required for this position prior to employment.
Application Process: Please apply online, and search for R . Internal applicants may search and apply for jobs on the UVA Internal Careers website . Complete an application online with the following documents:CV/ResumeCover LetterUpload all materials into the resume submission field, multiple documents can be submitted into this one field. Alternatively, merge all documents into one PDF for submission. Applications that do not contain all the required documents will not receive full consideration. This position is open until filled. References will be completed via UVA's standardized process SkillSurvey.
A total of five references will be requested via SkillSurvey during the final phase of the interview process. A minimum of three are required. For information regarding the position or the application process, please contact Jessica Speth, Academic Recruiter, Job Profile J1882 - Laboratory Research Operations and Service 1 Career Stream and Level Operations and Service-O1 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.