Research Lab Technologist

Penn State University•University Park, IL

5d•$40,608 - $58,836

About The Position

The Kapur Laboratory, within the Huck Institutes of Life Sciences and the College of Agricultural Sciences at The Pennsylvania State University, seeks two full-time Research Lab Technologists to support research programs in molecular biology, infectious disease, and global health. The roles support the laboratory’s scientific infrastructure and the execution of complex, multi-investigator research initiatives. Research Lab Technologists generate high-quality, reproducible scientific data and help ensure the orderly, compliant, and efficient operation of the research environment. In coordination with faculty investigators and senior research personnel, they support experimental workflows, maintain continuity across projects, and uphold institutional standards for biosafety, data integrity, and regulatory compliance. The positions require technical proficiency, professional judgment, organizational discipline, independence in carrying out established protocols, meticulous recordkeeping, and reliable support for laboratory operations. The appointments are funded for one year; continuation beyond that period depends on university need, performance, and/or funding availability.

Requirements

Hands-on experience with core molecular biology techniques, particularly PCR-based methods.
Strong organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail.
Ability to follow protocols precisely and maintain compliance with biosafety and regulatory standards.
Ability to work effectively as part of a collaborative research team.
Bachelor's degree and at least one year of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
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 required background checks.

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, calibrations, 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, organize, and assist with analysis and interpretation of experimental data.
Contribute figures, summaries, and documentation for laboratory meetings, internal reports, grant progress updates, and manuscripts.
Participate in regular laboratory meetings and provide updates on experimental progress and technical activities.