Researcher

Penn State University • University Park, IL

18h • Onsite

About The Position

The Hanna lab at The Pennsylvania State University is a new, collaborative research group studying the molecular pathways that detect, limit, and repair damage to lysosomes — organelles that are especially vulnerable to injury and whose dysfunction is increasingly implicated in neurodegenerative disease. We are seeking a highly motivated, dedicated, and enthusiastic Researcher, keen to design, implement, and advance our ongoing research activities.
In this Researcher position, you will work closely with the PI and researchers at all career stages to shape and execute the experimental priorities on high-impact projects. Working with a high degree of independence, you will apply cutting-edge cell-biological approaches: from live-cell fluorescence microscopy of organelle dynamics to organelle immunoisolation for proteomic and lipidomic characterization and CRISPR/Cas9 genetic editing of mammalian cells. We are a small, close-knit team where creative thinking and persistence are celebrated, and there is plenty of opportunity to learn, contribute ideas, and grow.

Requirements

• master's degree, or its equivalent, in cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, neuroscience, or a related field.
• A background in cell and molecular biology or biochemistry, together with strong technical, analytical, and communication skills, is expected, as is the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

Nice To Haves

• mammalian cell culture and genetic editing
• molecular cloning and standard molecular biology techniques
• fluorescence and confocal microscopy
• protein and organelle biochemistry, including western blotting and immunoisolation
• image-analysis software

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the lab's mammalian cell culture and genetic-editing projects, designing and implementing experiments independently and in coordination with the PI.
• Design, execute, and advance live-cell and confocal fluorescence microscopy experiments across multiple ongoing projects, and help oversee microscope use in the lab.
• Develop, apply, and optimize molecular cloning strategies in support of the lab's research goals.
• Direct and advance the lab's protein and organelle biochemistry efforts, including characterization for proteomic and lipidomic analyses.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret data; troubleshoot experimental and technical challenges; and maintain accurate, well-organized records.
• Help train and mentor trainees in laboratory techniques, biosafety practices, lab policies, equipment use, and proper record keeping.
• Contribute to and help coordinate co-authored publications, grant proposals, presentations, and summary reports.
• Support day-to-day lab operations and take on additional projects in support of the lab's goals.

Benefits

• comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• robust retirement plans
• 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level