Research Technologist- Whitaker Lab

Penn State University • University Park, IL

21h

About The Position

The Whitaker Lab, a new research group within the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences at Penn State, invites applications for a Research Technologist. We use a genetic platform that enables the reversible colonization of the human gut by engineered bacteria (https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adu8000). We apply this technology to developing novel genetic tools to probe gut ecosystem and host-microbiome interactions, as well as engineering living medicines to treat chronic diseases. This is a unique opportunity to join a new lab and play a central role in establishing our scientific culture, physical infrastructure, and operational workflows.

Requirements

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

Nice To Haves

• Previous experience in an academic or industrial laboratory setting, particularly with molecular biology or microbiology techniques.
• Anaerobic culturing or synthetic biology experience is a plus but not required.
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to manage complex inventories, maintain meticulous records, and safety compliance.
• Demonstrated ability to take ownership of projects in a fast-paced environment and a willingness to help establish the culture and workflows of a new organization.
• A genuine interest in synthetic biology, the microbiome, or the engineering of living medicines.

Responsibilities

• Execute synthetic biology workflows, including PCR and DNA assembly. Training will be provided for techniques such as Golden Gate assembly and next-generation sequencing library preparation.
• Manage bacterial cultures and perform growth assays. Prior experience with anaerobic chambers is a plus, but we are eager to train candidates with strong general microbiology skills.
• Support downstream analytical workflows, such as preparing samples for proteomics or metabolomics in coordination with core facilities.
• Help implement and maintain a modern, AI-assisted Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) to track samples and experiments (previous experience a plus but not required).
• Develop tools to standardize operational and experimental workflows (no coding experience required).
• Manage laboratory operations including space organization, chemical inventories, equipment maintenance, and purchasing of consumables.
• Ensure laboratory spaces remain clean, organized, and compliant with institutional safety policies and regulatory requirements.
• Participate in experimental planning and troubleshooting discussions, with opportunities to co-author manuscripts and assist in grant preparation.
• Assist in the onboarding and training of new students and staff on protocols and safety procedures.
• Play a central role in establishing the laboratory’s scientific culture and operational foundation as a key member of a new research team.

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