Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work additional information on remote work at Penn State seeNotice to Out of State Applicants.
This position is funded for 1 year(s); continuation past 1 year(s) will be based on university need performance and/or availability of funding.POSITION SPECIFICS
The Kapur Laboratory situated within the Huck Institutes of Life Sciences and the College of Agricultural Sciences at The Pennsylvania State University seeks to appoint two full-time Research Lab Technologists to support its internationally engaged research programs in molecular biology infectious disease and global health. These appointments represent a critical investment in the laboratorys scientific infrastructure and are central to the sustained execution of complex multi-investigator research initiatives.
The Research Technologist will hold a position of responsibility within the laboratory contributing to the generation of high-quality reproducible scientific data while ensuring the orderly compliant and efficient operation of the research environment. Working in close coordination with faculty investigators and senior research personnel the incumbent will support experimental workflows that underpin externally funded research maintain continuity across ongoing projects and uphold institutional standards for biosafety data integrity and regulatory compliance.
This role demands a high degree of technical proficiency professional judgment and organizational discipline. The successful candidates will be expected to exercise care and independence in the execution of established protocols to maintain meticulous scientific records and to support laboratory operations in a manner consistent with the expectations of a leading research university. These positions offer the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to impactful scientific inquiry while operating within a collegial intellectually rigorous academic setting.
Key Responsibilities:
Laboratory Techniques and Experimental Support
Perform a wide range of molecular biology techniques including DNA and RNA extraction PCR and RT-PCR gel electrophoresis molecular cloning and protein and peptide analysis and purification.
Prepare quality-control and manage sequencing workflows including library preparation for next-generation sequencing sample normalization and documentation.
Process label store and track biological samples to accordance with institutional biosafety biosecurity and regulatory requirements.
Assist with experimental design execution optimization and troubleshooting under the guidance of faculty or senior research staff.
Maintain accurate thorough and timely laboratory notebooks and electronic records documenting protocols observations and results.
Laboratory Operations and Equipment Management
Lead and support laboratory organization including workflow optimization space management and adherence to safety standards.
Prepare buffers media reagents and solutions following established protocols and quality standards.
Monitor laboratory inventory coordinate ordering of supplies and ensure uninterrupted laboratory operations.
Perform routine maintenance calibrations and verification of laboratory equipment including thermocyclers centrifuges biosafety cabinets and related instrumentation.
Ensure laboratory spaces remain clean organized and fully compliant with institutional safety policies and regulatory requirements.
Data Management and Reporting
Collect organize and assist with the analysis and interpretation of experimental data.
Contribute to the preparation of figures summaries and documentation for laboratory meetings internal reports grant progress updates and manuscripts.
Participate in regular lab meetings and provide clear updates on experimental progress and technical activities.
Required Qualifications
Hands-on experience with core molecular biology techniques particularly PCR-based methods.
Strong organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail.
Ability to follow protocols precisely and maintain compliance with biosafety and regulatory standards.
Demonstrated ability to work effectively as part of a collaborative research team.
Preferred Qualifications
Bachelors degree in molecular biology biology biochemistry or a related life science discipline.
Prior experience in an academic or research laboratory setting.
Familiarity with data management systems.
Experience supporting multiple projects simultaneously in a structured research environment.
MINIMUM EDUCATION WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
Bachelors Degree 1 years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted Required Certifications: NoneBACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position including all possible grades is $38300.00 - $55500.00.Salary Structure - Information on Penn States salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional addition to comprehensive medical dental and vision coverage employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information please visit our Benefits Page.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988 Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security such as those concerning alcohol and drug use crime prevention the reporting of crimes sexual assault and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race color religion age sex sexual orientation gender identity national origin disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability please contact .
The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity respect and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the universitys teaching research and service mission.Required Experience:
IC
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