Research Technologist - Animal Sciences - Department of Molecular and Precision Medicine​/Medicine

Research Technologist

The Department of Medicine at Penn State College of Medicine seeks a Research Technologist to support active research programs in molecular biology, infectious disease, and translational disease models. This position will provide essential support for mouse colony management, genotyping workflows, and general laboratory operations that underpin externally funded research initiatives.

Working under the supervision of faculty investigators and senior laboratory personnel, the Research Technologist will contribute to maintaining organized, compliant, and efficient research operations while generating reliable experimental data. This role is well suited for an early-career laboratory professional seeking to develop technical expertise within an academic research environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with maintenance and monitoring of experimental and transgenic mouse colonies
• Support breeding setup and colony expansion under investigator guidance
• Perform ear or tail biopsies for genotyping in accordance with approved IACUC protocols
• Maintain accurate colony records and assist with database tracking
• Coordinate with animal facility staff to ensure compliance and proper animal care

• Perform DNA extraction and PCR-based genotyping
• Conduct gel electrophoresis and document genotyping results
• Label, store, and track biological samples in compliance with institutional biosafety standards
• Maintain organized laboratory notebooks and electronic records

• Prepare reagents, buffers, and media according to established protocols
• Monitor inventory levels and assist with ordering supplies
• Maintain clean and organized laboratory work spaces
• Follow institutional safety, biosafety, and regulatory policies

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated familiarity with basic laboratory techniques
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Ability to follow established protocols precisely
• Ability to work effectively as part of a collaborative research team
• Experience handling laboratory animals or working in an animal research setting
• Experience performing PCR or other basic molecular biology techniques
• Familiarity with record-keeping systems or colony management databases
• Prior experience in an academic or biomedical laboratory environment

Minimum Education, Work Experience & Required Certifications

If filled as Research Technologist
- Animal Sciences
- Intermediate Professional, this position requires:

• Bachelor's Degree
• 1+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
• Required
  
  Certifications:
  
  None

If filled as Research Technologist
- Animal Sciences
- Professional, this position requires:

• Bachelor's Degree
• No prior relevant work experience required; previous relevant work experience accepted in lieu of education.
• Required
  
  Certifications:
  
  None

Salary & Benefits

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $34,800.00 - $55,500.00.

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In 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.