Research Technologist - Cell and Biological Systems

Research Technologist
- Life Sciences

The Department of Cell and Biological Systems at the Penn State College of Medicine is seeking a detail-oriented Research Technologist to support funded biomedical research. The role involves executing experiments, maintaining regulatory compliance, and managing daily lab operations in a collaborative setting. Candidates should be highly motivated and this role is a great fit for early-career laboratory professionals.

Roles and responsibilities include:

• Assist in molecular and cell biology experiments, including recombinant DNA construction, in situ hybridization, cell culture, transfection, and viral-mediated transduction, etc.
• Facilitate research of xenograft mouse models
• Data analysis
• Routine lab maintenance and administration tasks

The Research Technologist
- Life Sciences develops, designs and conducts research projects/experiments in the laboratory/field related to Life Science disciplines including neuroscience, plant science, physiology, pharmacology, microbiology, genomics, bioinformatics, and biotechnology; investigates and evaluates research methods, advises faculty/researchers on optimal use of methodology and equipment; collects, correlates, analyzes, summarizes and reports on results; identifies data integrity issues; trains users in equipment operation and research techniques;

and oversees daily operations of project.

• Conduct research projects or experiments related to life science areas of study; ensure protocol adherence; review progress and evaluate results
• Perform a variety of experimental tasks including assays, material tests, specimen evaluation, and cultures
• Execute and develop data collection procedures; record, correlate, and analyze data; prepare analysis summaries
• Contribute to the design of research methods; identify potential problems; recommend solutions and technical approaches for problem solving
• Make recommendations for the use of data collection, management, and visualization software
• Train users in equipment operation and research techniques; explain and demonstrate technology and equipment capabilities, limitations, and outcomes
• Develop project protocols; provide input in determining feasibility of goals and objectives; responsible for assuring quality, cost effectiveness and timeliness of assigned projects
• Author papers, proposals, presentations and reports in order to disseminate findings to the larger research community
• May be responsible for operation of a specialized research area or laboratory
• May supervise staff members, including hiring, development, and performance management

Minimum education, work experience, and required certifications:

Bachelor's Degree; no prior relevant work experience required; previous relevant work experience accepted in lieu of education. Required certifications: none.

Preferred qualifications:

Education:

Bachelor's degree in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or related field.

Experience:

1–3 years of wet-lab experience with proficiency in molecular techniques and data documentation.

Salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $36,888.00 - $53,532.00.

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.