Laboratory Technician

Penn State University; Hershey (PA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 78,000; Full time

Job summary

Penn State University invites applications for a full-time Research Technologist in the Kim Lab at Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA. The role supports day-to-day research operations, focusing on rodent brain tissue collection, tissue clearing, and high-resolution whole-brain imaging.

The ideal candidate will have a bachelor's degree in neuroscience or biology, be reliable and detail-oriented, and enjoy learning advanced imaging techniques.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Neuroscience, Biology, or closely related field.
• Hands-on academic or industrial lab experience preferred, entry-level candidates encouraged.
• Reliable, self-motivated, meticulous with strong communication and organizational skills.
• Enthusiasm for mastering advanced imaging methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Conduct rodent brain tissue collection and tissue clearing protocols.
• Perform whole-brain high-resolution imaging using platforms such as light-sheet microscopy.
• Oversee laboratory mouse colony, inventory, and equipment upkeep; assist with compliance documentation.
• Provide onboarding and daily supervision for students in the lab.

Skills

Attention to detail

Interpersonal communication

Organizational skills

Imaging techniques

Education

Bachelor's degree in Neuroscience, Biology, or closely related scientific discipline

Job description

A full-time Research Technologist position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Yongsoo Kim within the Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics at Penn State College of Medicine in Hershey, PA. The Kim Lab investigates the cell-type architecture of the nervous system and how complex neural circuitry supports cognitive function in the mammalian brain, utilizing mice as a primary model organism. Our translational research focuses primarily on neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism, and neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's disease. To interrogate these systems, our research program relies extensively on whole-brain mapping methodologies that integrate high-resolution 3D optical imaging, tissue clearing techniques, and computational data analysis. Exceptional candidates possessing significant relevant expertise and independent management experience may be considered for appointment at the Senior Research Technologist or Laboratory Manager level.

Core Responsibilities and Daily Operations

The successful candidate will serve a central role in conducting research operations and maintaining day-to-day experimental workflows within the laboratory. Core technical responsibilities focus on rodent brain tissue collection and specialized sample preparation, including tissue clearing protocols, followed by whole-brain high-resolution imaging using platforms such as light-sheet fluorescence microscopy. The technologist will also take primary ownership of the laboratory mouse colony, carrying out regular animal husbandry coordination, DNA extraction, and routine PCR genotyping assays to support ongoing projects.

Beyond wet-lab experimental workflows, the role involves essential administrative and operational works to ensure a productive research environment. This includes tracking inventory, ordering reagents and consumables, overseeing laboratory equipment upkeep, managing general workspace organization, and assisting with experimental protocols and compliance documentation. The technologist will also actively participate in computational workflows by helping organize and process imaging data, while providing technical guidance, hands‑on onboarding, and daily supervision for undergraduate and graduate students working in the space.

Qualifications and Candidate Profile

This position requires a bachelor's degree in Neuroscience, Biology, or a closely related scientific discipline. While prior hands‑on academic or industrial laboratory experience is preferred, highly motivated entry‑level candidates with strong foundational training are encouraged to apply. The ideal candidate must be reliable, self‑motivated, meticulous in experimental execution, and possess clear interpersonal communication and organizational capabilities. A genuine enthusiasm for mastering advanced imaging methodologies and adapting to novel experimental protocols is critical for long‑term success in this role.