Part - Time Lab Assistant

The Pennsylvania State University; State College (Centre County); On-site; USD 20,664 - 27,552; Part time

Job summary

The Pennsylvania State University is seeking a motivated undergraduate researcher for a part-time lab assistant position in the McReynolds Lab. This role involves supporting research on redox stress and aging with C. elegans, assisting in maintenance, performing lifespan assays, and collaborating with a dynamic research team. Ideal candidates will have a strong interest in molecular biology and prior experience working with C. elegans. Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and reference name via the application portal.

Qualifications

• Familiarity with lifespan, reproductive, or developmental assays in worms.
• Attention to detail and ability to work independently under supervision.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the maintenance and culturing of C. elegans strains.
• Perform standardized lifespan and brood size assays.
• Accurately record and organize experimental data.
• Help prepare media, plates, and basic lab reagents.
• Attend weekly lab meetings and maintain an organized lab notebook.

Skills

Previous experience working with C. elegans

Strong organizational skills

Ability to follow protocols

Interest in molecular biology

Strong communication skills

Education

Relevant coursework or lab experience

Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

• Current Penn State employee (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
• Current Penn State student (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
• If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

The McReynolds Lab at Penn State is seeking a motivated and reliable undergraduate researcher to join our team as a part‑time lab assistant. This position will support ongoing research focused on understanding redox stress and aging using the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans). The successful candidate will contribute to experiments investigating the relationship between redox imbalance, NAD+ metabolism, and lifespan regulation.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the maintenance and culturing of C. elegans strains.
• Perform standardized lifespan and brood size assays.
• Accurately record and organize experimental data.
• Help prepare media, plates, and basic lab reagents.
• Work collaboratively with graduate students and other undergraduates.
• Attend weekly lab meetings and maintain an organized lab notebook.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience working with C. elegans is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with lifespan, reproductive, or developmental assays in worms.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to follow protocols and work independently under supervision.
• Interest in molecular biology, genetics, aging, or redox biology.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work as part of a research team.

How to Apply

How to Apply:
Interested students should submit a brief cover letter outlining their interest in the position, a resume including relevant coursework or lab experience, and the name of one academic or research reference. Please upload materials to this application portal. Questions can be directed to [e-mail].

About the Lab

The McReynolds Lab investigates the intersection of metabolism, redox biology, and aging using Caenorhabditis elegans and mammalian models. Our interdisciplinary team is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive training environment for aspiring scientists.

Background Checks / Clearances

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814‑865‑1473.