Research Lab Technologist

Penn State University; State College (Centre County); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

The Kapur Laboratory at The Pennsylvania State University seeks a full-time Research Lab Technologist to support molecular biology, infectious disease, and global health research programs. The position emphasizes meticulous record-keeping, protocol integrity, and collaborative work within a leading academic setting.

Responsibilities include DNA/RNA extraction, PCR/RT-PCR, sequencing workflows, sample management, and regulatory compliance, with emphasis on safety, quality, and clear communication

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in molecular biology, biology, biochemistry, or related life science field.

Responsibilities

• Perform DNA and RNA extraction, PCR and RT-PCR, gel electrophoresis, cloning, and protein analysis.
• Prepare, QC, and manage sequencing workflows including library prep for NGS.
• Process, label, store, and track samples per biosafety and regulatory requirements.
• Assist with experimental design, execution, optimization, and troubleshooting.
• Maintain accurate lab notebooks and electronic records.

Skills

Molecular biology techniques

Data management

Laboratory record-keeping

Education

Bachelor's degree in molecular biology or related life science

Tools

Thermocyclers

Centrifuges

Biosafety cabinets

Job description

POSITION SPECIFICS

The Kapur Laboratory , situated with the Huck Institutes of Life Sciences and the College of Agricultural Sciences at The Pennsylvania State University , seeks to appoint a full-time Research Lab Technologist to support its internationally engaged research programs in molecular biology, infectious disease, and global health. This appointment will represent a critical investment in the laboratory's scientific infrastructure and are central to the sustained execution of complex, multi-investigator research initiatives, integrity, and regulatory compliance.

This role demands a high degree of technical proficiency, professional judgement, and organizational discipline. The successful candidate will be expected to exercise care and independence in the execution of established protocols, to maintain meticulous scientific records, and to support laboratory operations in a manner consistent with the expectations of a leading research university. This position offers the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to impactful scientific inquiry while operating within a collegial, intellectually rigorous academic setting.

This position is funded for 1 year(s); continuation past 1 year(s) will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.

Key Responsibilities:

Laboratory Techniques and Experimental Support

• Perform a wide range of molecular biology techniques, including DNA and RNA extraction, PCR and RT-PCR, gel electrophoresis, molecular cloning, and protein and peptide analysis and purification.
• Prepare, quality-control, and manage sequencing workflows, including library preparation for next-generation sequencing, sample normalization, and documentation.
• Process, label, store, and track biological samples to accordance with institutional biosafety, biosecurity, and regulatory requirements.
• Assist with experimental design, execution, optimization, and troubleshooting under the guidance of faculty or senior research staff.
• Maintain accurate, thorough, and timely laboratory notebooks and electronic records documenting protocols, observations, and results.

Laboratory Operations and Equipment Management

• Lead and support laboratory organization, including workflow optimization, space management, and adherence to safety standards.
• Prepare buffers, media, reagents, and solutions following established protocols and quality standards.
• Monitor laboratory inventory, coordinate ordering of supplies, and ensure uninterrupted laboratory operations.
• Perform routine maintenance, calibrations, and verification or laboratory equipment, including thermocyclers, centrifuges, biosafety cabinets, and relation instrumentation.
• Ensure laboratory spaces remain clean, organized, and fully compliant with institutional safety policies and regulatory requirements.

Data Management and Reporting

• Collect, organize, and assist with the analysis and interpretation of experimental data.
• Contribute to the preparation of figures, summaries, and documentation for laboratory meetings, internal reports, grant progress updates, and manuscripts.
• Strong organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail.
• Ability to follow protocols precisely and maintain compliance with biosafety and regulatory standards.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively as part of a collaborative research team.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in molecular biology, biology, biochemistry, or a related life science discipline.
• Prior experience in an academic or research laboratory setting.
• Familiarity with data management systems.
• Experience supporting multiple projects simultaneously in a structured research environment.

Minimum Education, Work Experience & Required Certifications

Bachelor's Degree

No prior relevant work experience required; previous relevant work experience accepted in lieu of education.

Required Certifications: None

Background Checks/Clearances

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

Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

SALARY & BEN