Part Time - Student (Undergraduate) - Tsotakos Lab Research Associate (2026-2027)

The Pennsylvania State University; Harrisburg (Dauphin County); On-site; USD 17,000 - 28,000; Part time

Job summary

Penn State Harrisburg seeks up to two undergraduate students to join the Tsotakos Lab for research on non-coding RNAs in chronic kidney disease. Positions begin immediately and reports progress to Dr. Tsotakos.

This role offers hands-on lab experience across molecular biology techniques and data analysis. Applicants should be current biology students with interest in biochemistry and molecular biology, and are expected to perform routine experiments and maintain meticulous records.

Qualifications

• BIOL 230W (Molecules and Cells) completed or in progress.
• BIOL 322 or related 400-level classes preferred.
• Excel, Python, and/or R knowledge beneficial.

Responsibilities

• General lab maintenance.
• Preparation of materials for experiments.
• Maintenance of mammalian cell culture.
• Implementation of routine Biochemistry and Molecular Biology experiments (Western blot, cloning, qPCR).
• Data analysis.

Skills

Excel

Python

R

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

The Tsotakos Lab at Penn State Harrisburg is seeking up to two undergraduate students for research positions beginning immediately. Research is focused on the role of non-coding RNAs in chronic kidney disease. Other projects, including student-initiated ones, may be explored. The selected candidate(s) will report their progress directly to Dr. Tsotakos.

Job Duties

• General lab maintenance.
• Preparation of materials for experiments.
• Maintenance of mammalian cell culture.
• Implementation of routine Biochemistry and Molecular Biology experiments, such as Western blotting, molecular cloning, and qPCR.
• Data analysis.

Requirements and Qualifications

• Typically require successful completion of BIOL 230W, Molecules and Cells.
• Preferred qualifications include BIOL 322, Genetic Analysis, or other related 400-level classes.
• Working knowledge of Excel, Python, and/or R are beneficial.
• Attention to detail and detailed recordkeeping are highly valued.

Background Checks/Clearances

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

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