Research Lab Technologist
About The Position
The Kapur Laboratory, situated within the Huck Institutes of Life Sciences and the College of Agricultural Sciences at The Pennsylvania State University, seeks a full-time Research Lab Technologist to support research programs in molecular biology, infectious disease, and global health. The position supports the laboratory’s scientific infrastructure and the execution of complex, multi-investigator research initiatives while contributing to research integrity and regulatory compliance. The successful candidate will use technical proficiency, professional judgment, and organizational discipline to carry out established protocols, maintain meticulous scientific records, and support laboratory operations. The role offers the opportunity to contribute to scientific research in a collaborative, intellectually rigorous academic setting. The position is funded for one year; continuation beyond that period will depend on university need, performance, and/or funding availability.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree; previous relevant work experience may be accepted in lieu of education.
- No prior relevant work experience is required.
- 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.
- Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States; Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment visa.
- Successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies is required.
Nice To Haves
- Bachelor’s 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.
Responsibilities
- Perform 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 next-generation sequencing library preparation, sample normalization, and documentation.
- Process, label, store, and track biological samples in 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.
- Support laboratory organization, workflow optimization, space management, and adherence to safety standards.
- Prepare buffers, media, reagents, and solutions according to established protocols and quality standards.
- Monitor laboratory inventory and coordinate ordering of supplies.
- Perform routine maintenance, calibration, and verification of laboratory equipment, including thermocyclers, centrifuges, biosafety cabinets, and related instrumentation.
- Keep laboratory spaces clean, organized, and compliant with institutional safety policies and regulatory requirements.
- Collect and organize experimental data and assist with its analysis and interpretation.
- Contribute figures, summaries, and documentation for laboratory meetings, internal reports, grant progress updates, and manuscripts.
Benefits
- Medical coverage
- Dental coverage
- Vision coverage
- Retirement plans
- Paid holidays
- Vacation time
- Sick time
- 75% tuition discount for employees and eligible spouses and children
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
