The Research Technician III will work on department-related grant-funded research projects that will be for a fixed time period. The position works under minimal supervision on research projects as assigned and carries out research objectives and tasks as outlined by the Principal Investigator based on grants/contracts. They will lead difficult projects which will require proficient and comprehensive knowledge of the field of specialization. A Research technician III will be required to contribute in experiments, field and laboratory tests by leading a team, ensuring quality standards, operating, preparing laboratory equipment, materials and procedures. They may also be asked to monitor, record and summarize results, which could include preparing tables, charts, graphs and advanced statistical data analysis. This individual will be expected to have a significant degree of creative thinking and independent problem-solving abilities. The Research Technician III will also be required to present at research meetings and contribute to the writing of published findings for journals, books and/or other media. This individual will need to use, clean and maintain equipment for use in experiments and test. The Research Technician III may also ensure sufficient inventory levels of materials, supplies and equipment. Off hours and weekend work may be required.

For Natural Science-related positions:

• Perform technical duties involved in conducting physical, chemical or biological tests/experiments
• Preparation, handling and care for lab animals
• Obtain, prepare, mount and stain tissue, blood and other substances for microscopic examinations
• Prepare culture media, chemicals, reagents and solutions

Additional information may be found here

For Applied Science-related departments:

• Demonstrate a mastery understanding of engineering principles, processes and equipment
• Familiar with computer hardware and software engineering principles
• Performs research directed toward investigation, evaluation, and application of known engineering theories and principles
• Perform engineering analyses/experiments to prove, or modify theoretical propositions
• Will be expected to have experience with equipment operations and maintenance (i.e. machining equipment, super computer, etc.)

The above statements describe the approximate nature of work being performed by individuals assigned to this classification. This is not intended to be an exhaustive description of all responsibilities and duties required of personnel with this classification.  The job description may alter depending on the nature of the grant/contract that is being fulfilled.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Work effectively as a team member, embracing and fostering the mission of Liberty University
• Develop, design and conduct one or more small or moderately complex research projects or experiments in line with plan, reviews progress and evaluates results
• Manage projects of small or moderate size and scope; contribute to determining feasibility of goals and objectives; responsible for assuring quality, cost effectiveness and timeliness of assigned projects
• Participate in formulating research methods and suggesting options for improving quality and recommending solutions; identify problems and related technical issues leading to long-term solutions by identifying technical approaches for problem solving
• Coordinate data collection and screening and verify data; conduct analysis of data, interpret and implement research methodology based on outcome of analysis
• May be responsible for operation of a specialized research area or laboratory
• May act as liaison with other departments, divisions or organizations to answer questions or provide advice on research projects/experiments
• Train users in equipment operation and research techniques, explain and demonstrate technology and equipment capabilities, operations limitations and outcomes
• Assist in preparation of papers, proposals, presentations and reports to outside audience
• May also perform duties identified in lower-level(s)

QUALIFICATIONS AND CREDENTIALS

Education and Experience

Bachelor's Degree or higher and enrolled in graduate program

ABILITIES AND COMPETENCIES ESSENTIAL TO THE FUNCTION OF THE JOB

Communication and Comprehension

• Ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to understand, speak, and write English in order to convey messages and correspond in an articulate and professional manner.
• Communication skills that allow professional representation of Liberty University to a variety of business and community customers and associates.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Excellent computer skills and proficiency with Microsoft Office.

Problem Solving

• Intuitively able to reason, analyze information and events, and apply judgment in order to solve problems of both a routine and complex nature.

Physical and Sensory Abilities

• Excellent dexterity to facilitate precise handling of extremely small volumes of solutions and to perform animal surgeries.
• Occasionally required to travel to local and campus locations.

• Frequently required to sit for extended periods to perform deskwork, type on a keyboard, and complete research-related assays.
• Regularly required to hear and speak in order to effectively communicate orally.
• Occasionally required to stand, walk, and climb stairs (3 flights) to move about the building.
• Handle materials, reach overhead, kneel or stoop in order to conduct business.
• Regularly lift 20 or fewer pounds.
• No aversion or health concerns with working around small rodents.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Work Environment

The working environment in which one will typically perform the essential functions of this position is a climate-controlled laboratory and office setting.  It is well lighted and the noise level is moderate.

Regular (daily) exposure to rodent allergens is and should be expected.      

Driving Requirements

Use of one’s personal vehicle (or LU vehicles) may be required for travel in the performance of the essential functions of this position.  Proof of a valid Virginia driver’s license, an acceptable DMV record, and liability insurance is required.

Target Hire Date

2025-08-01

Time Type

Part time

Location

Lynchburg - In Office

The University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We believe it is our moral and legal obligation to meet the responsibility of ensuring that all management practices regarding employees are conducted in a nondiscriminatory manner. In compliance with Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, and other applicable federal and state statutes, all recruiting, hiring, training, and promoting for all job classifications will be administered without regard to race, color, ancestry, age, sex, national origin, pregnancy or childbirth, disability, military veteran status or other applicable status protected by law, including state of employment protected classes. It is, therefore, our policy and intention to evaluate all employees and prospective employees strictly according to the requirements of the job. All personnel related activities such as compensation, benefits, transfers, job classification, assignments, working conditions, educational assistance, terminations, layoffs, and return from layoffs, and all other terms, conditions and privileges of employment will be administered without regard to race, color, ancestry, age, sex, national origin, pregnancy or childbirth, disability, military veteran status or other applicable status protected by law, including all applicable state of employment protected classes. The University is a Christian religious-affiliated organization; and as such, is not subject to religious discrimination requirements. The University’s hiring practices and EEO discrimination practices are in full compliance with both federal and state law. Federal law creates an exception to the “religion” component of the employment discrimination laws for religious organizations (including educational institutions), and permits them to give employment practice preference to members of their own religious beliefs.