Research Lab Technologist

Penn State University • University Park, IL

1d

About The Position

The Kapur Laboratory, situated with the Huck Institutes of Life Sciences and the College of Agricultural Sciences at The Pennsylvania State University, seeks to appoint a full-time Research Lab Technologist to support its internationally engaged research programs in molecular biology, infectious disease, and global health. This appointment will represent a critical investment in the laboratory's scientific infrastructure and are central to the sustained execution of complex, multi-investigator research initiatives, integrity, and regulatory compliance. This role demands a high degree of technical proficiency, professional judgement, and organizational discipline. The successful candidate will be expected to exercise care and independence in the execution of established protocols, to maintain meticulous scientific records, and to support laboratory operations in a manner consistent with the expectations of a leading research university. This position offers the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to impactful scientific inquiry while operating within a collegial, intellectually rigorous academic setting.

Requirements

• 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.
• Bachelor's Degree
• No prior relevant work experience required; previous relevant work experience accepted in lieu of education.

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 a wide range of 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 library preparation for next-generation sequencing, sample normalization, and documentation.
• Process, label, store, and track biological samples to 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.
• Lead and support laboratory organization, including workflow optimization, space management, and adherence to safety standards.
• Prepare buffers, media, reagents, and solutions following established protocols and quality standards.
• Monitor laboratory inventory, coordinate ordering of supplies, and ensure uninterrupted laboratory operations.
• Perform routine maintenance, calibrations, and verification or laboratory equipment, including thermocyclers, centrifuges, biosafety cabinets, and relation instrumentation.
• Ensure laboratory spaces remain clean, organized, and fully compliant with institutional safety policies and regulatory requirements.
• Collect, organize, and assist with the analysis and interpretation of experimental data.
• Contribute to the preparation of figures, summaries, and documentation for laboratory meetings, internal reports, grant progress updates, and manuscripts.

Benefits

• 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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees