Part-Time Research Lab Assistant - Kovac Lab

Penn State University • University Park, PA

1d

About The Position

The Kovac Lab is seeking an undergraduate research assistant to support ongoing research on plasma-activated water (PAW) as a novel antimicrobial intervention against foodborne pathogens. The assistant will work under the supervision of lab personnel to prepare microbiological media, decontaminate biohazardous waste, and assist with BSL-2 pathogen inactivation experiments.

Requirements

• Currently enrolled undergraduate student, preferably with coursework in microbiology, food science, biology, or a related field.
• Completion of (or concurrent enrollment in) a general microbiology course preferred.
• Must complete required institutional lab safety, biosafety and BSL-2 training prior to beginning independent work.
• Strong attention to detail, ability to follow standard operating procedures precisely, and reliability with scheduled lab hours.
• Ability to commit to a minimum of 10 hours per week for at least one semester.

Nice To Haves

• Prior laboratory experience with aseptic technique is a plus but not required; training will be provided.

Responsibilities

• Prepare microbiological growth media (e.g., broths, agar plates) following standard aseptic technique, including autoclaving, pH verification, and proper labeling/storage.
• Decontaminate and dispose of biohazardous waste (cultures, contaminated materials, sharps) in accordance with institutional Biosafety Level 2 (BSL-2) protocols and EHS guidelines.
• Assist with experiments evaluating the efficacy of plasma-activated water against BSL-2 foodborne pathogens (e.g., Salmonella, Listeria monocytogenes, E. coli), including pathogen culturing, treatment application, serial dilution, plating, and colony enumeration.
• Maintain accurate laboratory notebooks and electronic records of experimental procedures and results.
• Follow all BSL-2 safety protocols, including proper use of PPE, biosafety cabinets, and autoclave equipment.
• Participate in regular lab meetings and communicate progress with the PI and lab members.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed