Part-Time Research Assistant – Whitaker Lab
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Job Location:
University Park, IL - USA
Monthly Salary:
Not Disclosed
Posted on:
Yesterday
Vacancies:
1 Vacancy
Job Summary
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty staff technical service or student) please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here apply internally through Workday.
CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here apply internally through Workday.
If you are NOT a current employee or student please click Apply and complete the application process for external applicants.
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.
JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS
We are seeking motivated undergraduate researchers to support critical projects in the lab through the summer 2026 term. This role focuses on the development of sophisticated genetic tools for gut commensalsspecifically Bacteroidesto advance our work in living therapeutics and environmental diagnostics. You will be part of a high-growth academic environment bridging the gap between foundational synthetic biology and translational medicine while gaining experience with professional-grade laboratory automation and documentation systems.
Key Responsibilities
Genetic Engineering: Perform routine and complex DNA assembly to support the design of synthetic genetic circuits including troubleshooting assembly failures and verifying constructs via sequencing.
Microbial Cultivation: Maintain and manipulate bacterial cultures within a strictly anaerobic environment.
Laboratory Operations: Assist with general lab maintenance including the preparation of specialized anaerobic media and stock solutions.
Data Documentation: Maintain meticulous real-time records within the labs LIMS and present technical progress during weekly lab meetings.
Required Qualifications
Advanced Molecular Cloning: Direct experience with plasmid purification PCR optimization and Golden Gate Assembly.
Specialized Microbiology: Demonstrated proficiency in anaerobic microbiology techniques specifically bacterial conjugation and the operation of anaerobic chambers.
Technical Rigor: Strong attention to detail and the ability to follow complex Standard Operating Procedures independently.
Professionalism: Excellent organizational skills and a commitment to maintaining a collaborative safe and efficient laboratory environment.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.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 .
Required Experience:
Junior IC
About Company
Penn State is a major, public, research-I university serving Pennsylvania and the global community. Learn more about our undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degree programs.
