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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for a Virology Lab Assistant

💰 $45,000 - $65,000

ScienceResearchBiotechnologyHealthcareLaboratory

🎯 Role Definition

A Virology Lab Assistant is a foundational member of the research and development team, providing essential technical support for studies focused on viral pathogens. This role involves the hands-on execution of a variety of cellular and molecular biology techniques under the guidance of senior scientists. The ideal individual is meticulous, safety-conscious, and driven by a passion for scientific discovery, playing a critical part in the day-to-day operations that advance our understanding of viral replication, pathogenesis, and antiviral strategies. You are the engine room of the lab, ensuring that experiments are executed with precision and that the research environment is maintained to the highest standards.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Bachelor of Science Graduate (Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry)
  • Clinical Laboratory Assistant
  • Manufacturing Technician (Biopharmaceutical)

Advancement To:

  • Research Associate I/II
  • Senior Laboratory Technician
  • Virologist I / Scientist I

Lateral Moves:

  • Quality Control Analyst (Biology)
  • Cell Culture Specialist

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Perform and meticulously document the propagation and maintenance of various mammalian and insect cell lines using sterile, aseptic techniques to support viral infection studies.
  • Execute viral stock preparation, including infection of host cells, harvesting of viral particles, and purification through methods such as gradient ultracentrifugation.
  • Conduct a range of viral titration assays, such as plaque assays and TCID50 (50% Tissue Culture Infectious Dose) assays, to accurately determine viral concentrations in experimental samples.
  • Perform core molecular biology procedures including RNA/DNA extraction from various sample types, reverse transcription, and quantitative PCR (qPCR) for viral load quantification and gene expression analysis.
  • Assist in the development, execution, and optimization of novel virological and immunological assays under the direct supervision of senior research staff.
  • Operate and maintain essential laboratory equipment, including biosafety cabinets, incubators, centrifuges, microscopes, and automated liquid handlers, performing routine calibrations and troubleshooting.
  • Meticulously document all experimental procedures, raw data, and analytical results in official laboratory notebooks and Electronic Lab Notebooks (ELNs) in compliance with Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) and internal standards.
  • Accurately prepare, sterilize, and test a wide array of laboratory reagents, complex cell culture media formulations, and chemical solutions required for virology experiments.
  • Conduct protein-based immunoassays such as Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assays (ELISA) and Western Blotting to detect viral antigens or host immune responses.
  • Handle and process diverse biological samples (e.g., blood, tissue, swabs) for downstream virological analysis, adhering strictly to Biosafety Level 2 (BSL-2) or higher safety protocols.
  • Perform routine but critical lab maintenance duties, including cleaning and decontaminating work surfaces and equipment to ensure a safe, compliant, and orderly research environment.
  • Manage the cryopreservation program for cell banks and viral stocks, ensuring proper labeling, database inventory, and controlled retrieval from liquid nitrogen freezers.
  • Follow established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) with precision and contribute to the revision of existing protocols and the drafting of new procedures as techniques evolve.
  • Assist in monitoring and managing laboratory inventory, which includes tracking critical consumables, placing purchasing requests, and receiving and logging new supplies.
  • Prepare formal data summaries, including the generation of graphs, charts, and tables, for inclusion in presentations and reports for internal team meetings.
  • Execute transfection and viral transduction experiments to generate genetically modified cell lines or to express specific viral proteins for functional studies.
  • Perform routine mycoplasma testing and other cell line characterization assays to ensure the quality, identity, and integrity of all cell cultures used in experiments.

Secondary Functions

  • Properly manage and dispose of all forms of biohazardous and chemical waste according to institutional, local, and federal regulatory safety guidelines.
  • Actively participate in laboratory meetings, presenting data clearly and contributing to scientific discussions on experimental design, troubleshooting, and interpretation of results.
  • Stay current with relevant scientific literature and new laboratory techniques to support continuous improvement and innovation within the virology team.
  • Assist in the orientation and training of new junior personnel or interns on basic laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and equipment operation.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Aseptic & Cell Culture Techniques: Demonstrated proficiency in maintaining and propagating multiple mammalian cell lines without contamination.
  • Molecular Biology Assays: Hands-on experience with nucleic acid extraction (RNA/DNA), RT-PCR, and quantitative PCR (qPCR).
  • Virological Assays: Practical knowledge of performing viral titering methods like plaque assays or TCID50.
  • Immunoassays: Experience with protein analysis techniques such as ELISA and/or Western Blotting.
  • Biosafety Practices: Solid understanding and practical experience working within a Biosafety Level 2 (BSL-2) laboratory environment.
  • Laboratory Documentation: Skill in maintaining accurate and detailed records in a laboratory notebook (physical or electronic).
  • Reagent Preparation: Competency in calculating concentrations and preparing sterile buffers, media, and solutions.

Soft Skills

  • Exceptional Attention to Detail: A precise and meticulous approach to executing complex protocols and recording data is paramount.
  • Organizational & Time-Management: Ability to multitask, prioritize workflows, and manage time effectively in a dynamic, fast-paced research setting.
  • Collaborative Team Player: A positive attitude and the ability to work constructively with colleagues to achieve common research goals.
  • Effective Communication: Clearly and concisely communicate technical information, procedural questions, and results, both verbally and in writing.
  • Proactive Problem-Solving: The ability to identify issues, troubleshoot basic technical problems, and know when to escalate issues to senior staff.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

Bachelor of Science (BS) degree.

Preferred Education:

Master of Science (MS) degree.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Virology
  • Microbiology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Cell Biology
  • Biochemistry
  • Biotechnology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:
0-2 years of hands-on experience in a relevant academic or industry laboratory setting, which may include internships or extensive undergraduate research projects.

Preferred:
1+ years of direct, post-graduate experience with mammalian cell culture and core molecular biology techniques, ideally within a virology or infectious disease-focused lab.

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