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Dna Lab Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Research Technician

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

$15.75 - $21.75/hr

... Conduct DNA preparation (mini- and maxi-preps). 4) Support general lab operations, including ordering supplies, record-keeping, and instrument maintenance. Required Qualifications Demonstrated ...

Part Time Research Technician

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

$15.75 - $21.75/hr

... DNA preparation (mini- and maxi-preps). 5) Support general lab operations, including ordering supplies, record-keeping, and instrument maintenance. Required Qualifications Willingness to work ...

Showing results 21-40

Dna Lab information

See Virginia salary details

$12

$22

$33

How much do dna lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for dna lab in Virginia is $22.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.12 and $24.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a DNA lab?

A DNA Lab job involves analyzing genetic material for various applications, such as forensic investigations, medical diagnostics, ancestry research, and biotechnology. Professionals in a DNA lab may extract, amplify, and sequence DNA to identify genetic markers or mutations. Common roles include DNA analysts, forensic scientists, and molecular biologists who follow strict protocols to ensure accurate results. These jobs typically require a background in genetics, biology, or forensic science, along with specialized laboratory training.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in a DNA lab?

Professionals in a DNA lab often face challenges such as maintaining strict sample integrity to avoid contamination, troubleshooting complex instrumentation, and managing large volumes of data accurately. Collaborative teamwork is essential, as projects typically require coordination with researchers, technicians, and sometimes law enforcement or medical staff. Adapting quickly to evolving protocols and new technologies is also important in this dynamic field. Despite these challenges, working in a DNA lab offers rewarding opportunities to contribute to scientific discoveries, healthcare advancements, and forensic investigations.

How to work in a DNA lab?

Working in a DNA lab typically involves performing laboratory techniques such as DNA extraction, PCR, and gel electrophoresis. It requires knowledge of molecular biology, attention to detail, and often certification or training in lab safety and protocols. Familiarity with lab equipment and data analysis software is also important.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the DNA lab position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a DNA lab, professionals need a solid background in molecular biology, genetics, and laboratory techniques, often supported by a relevant degree such as biology, biochemistry, or forensic science. Familiarity with advanced instrumentation such as PCR machines, genetic sequencers, and laboratory information management systems (LIMS), as well as certifications like ASCP, is highly valued. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are essential soft skills for this environment. These skills and qualifications ensure accurate handling and interpretation of complex genetic data, which is critical for research integrity and reliable results.

How to become a DNA lab technician?

To become a DNA lab technician, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with many employers preferring an associate degree or bachelor's in biology, genetics, or a related field. Relevant skills include laboratory techniques, familiarity with DNA analysis tools, and attention to detail; certifications in laboratory safety or molecular biology can enhance job prospects. On-the-job training is common, and the role often requires working in a laboratory environment with standard working hours.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Dna Lab jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Dna Lab job openings:

Infographic showing various Dna Lab job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,462 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Lab and Research Technician 2, Pharmacology

University of Virginia

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

$40K - $50K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


University Of Virginia rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

208th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

The Department of Pharmacology at the University of Virginia seeks a Lab and Research Technician 2 to assist investigators in the Bayliss Lab with experiments designed to investigate the role of transcription factors in function of brainstem respiratory and autonomic neurons. The individual will predominantly maintain mouse colonies, perform molecular and histological assays, and behavioral testing. Experimental techniques may include PCR, RNA/DNA preparation and manipulation, cell culture, immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization, plethysmography, and blood chemistry analyses. Skill sets in molecular biology, histochemistry and mouse physiology are desired; candidates will be expected to demonstrate basic technical proficiencies as part of the interview process.
Learn more about the Bayliss Lab: https://pharm.virginia.edu/bayliss/
Duties, Responsibilities and Expectations will include but are not limited to:
Experimental Work
  • Maintain mouse inventories (genotyping, husbandry, database/record management).
  • Perform standard molecular biology (transformation, plasmid preparation, mutagenesis, and sub-cloning).
  • Learn/implement cell culture approaches for preparation of viral constructs.
  • Perform a variety of experimental procedures and assist in evaluation of research methods, procedures, and techniques based on established objectives (e.g., behavioral assays, histochemical assays).

Laboratory Maintenance and General Duties
  • Maintain accessible and thorough laboratory notebook documenting completed work.
  • Maintain a clean personal laboratory space
  • Assist with overall laboratory maintenance.
  • Make buffers and other reagents.
  • Ordering and Purchasing.
  • Process purchases for the lab using UVA Marketplace.
  • Interact with vendors to determine appropriate products.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
  • Education: Associate's degree required; may accept equivalent combination of experience, education, certification in lieu of degree.
  • Experience: 2+ years of lab experience which may include student 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 bench work and animal procedures requiring finer finger manipulation.
Anticipated Salary Range: $19.23 - $24.04/hour ($40k - $50k annually), commensurate with experience.
This is a non-exempt-level, benefited position. Learn more about UVA benefits .
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.
About UVA and the Community
To learn more about UVA and in the Charlottesville area, visit UVA Life and Embark CVA .
Additional Requirements
Background checks and pre-employment health screenings will be conducted on all new hires prior to employment.
How to Apply
Please apply online , by searching for requisition number R0081291. 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.
Internal applicants: Search and apply for jobs on the UVA Internal Careers website .
Reference Check Process
Reference checks will be completed by UVA's third-party partner, SkillSurvey, during the final phase of the interview. Five references will be requested, with at least three responses required.
Contact
For questions about the application process, please contact Jessica Speth, Academic Recruiter at js9rk@virginia.edu.
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 .

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About University of Virginia

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Virginia is distinctive among institutions of higher education. Founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, the University sustains the ideal of developing, through education, leaders who are well-prepared to shape the future of the nation.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlottesville, VA, US

Year founded

1819