Research Technologist - Life Sciences Professional - Bordenstein Lab

Penn State University; State College (Centre County); On-site; USD 37,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Tuition discount

Retirement plans

Paid time off

Job summary

Penn State University is seeking a Research Technologist Life Sciences-Professional to design, implement, support, analyze, and report on rigorous research in host-microbe symbioses and microbiome sciences. The role emphasizes Drosophila transgenic expression, genetic editing, and microscopy, with responsibilities spanning protocol design to team coordination.

The successful candidate will work in a collaborative academic setting, manage insect colonies, assist across the laboratory's

Qualifications

• Requires a Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience.
• Strong problem-solving, interpersonal, organizational, and documentation skills.
• Ability to work in a regimented, team environment and manage diverse audiences.

Responsibilities

• Design experimental protocols and implement them in the lab.
• Support and analyze host-microbe symbiosis research.
• Manage lab scheduling and supervise insect colonies.
• Prepare and report results to the team.

Skills

Research design

Data analysis

Team management

Scientific communication

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

Genetic editing

Fluorescence microscopy

Insect rearing

Job description

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 .

This position is funded for 12 months; continuation past 12 months will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.

POSITION SPECIFICS

The Bordenstein Laboratory in Penn State University's Departments of Biology and Entomology and One Health Microbiome Center seeks a Research Technologist Life Sciences-Professional to design, implement, support, analyze, and report on rigorous research in host-microbe symbioses and the microbiome sciences spanning insect endosymbionts, bacteriophages, and various animal-associated microbiomes. This position will heavily focus on the use of Drosophila transgenic expression, genetic editing techniques, fitness assays, reproductive tissue dissections, fluorescent and electron microscopy, and team management to understand the genetics and mechanisms of how endosymbiotic bacteria ( Wolbachia ) modify reproduction in Drosophila melanogaster .

THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE WILL HAVE PRIORITY TASKS IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS:

• A welcoming and professional environment.
• An ability to efficiently learn and implement tasks.
• Design of experimental protocols and implementations.
• Assistance across the Bordenstein Laboratory's scholarship.
• Disposal of biological and chemical waste; management of hazardous materials.
• Daily handling and maintenance of laboratory insect colonies and
• Troubleshooting of emergencies and laboratory scheduling.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Requires at least a Bachelor's degree, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Excellent problem-solving, interpersonal, organizational, communication, and documentation skills are essential.

The successful candidate must be able to work within a regimented, team environment and demonstrate a genuine appreciation in working, leading, and managing diverse audiences.

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

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Application materials should include a single pdf with (i) a cover letter summarizing relevant experience and reasons for interest in the job, (ii) a CV that includes contact information for at least three references (name, position, telephone number, and e-mail address) and (iii) full length and first-authored works of research spanning papers, reports, posters, and presentations for a complete review of scholarship; the portfolio materials must be attached to the submission in full and may be unpublished and not biology related. This position is funded for 12 months from date of hire with possibility of re-funding, pending successful performance. Please contact [e-mail] for additional information.

COMMUNITY

Pennsylvania State University is a Land-Grant university located in central Pennsylvania. State College and the surrounding communities are home to approximately 100,000 people, including over 45,000 students. The area is known for its highly ranked livability, access to abundant nature spanning beautiful mountains, streams, and parks, and superb recreational opportunities and sports. State College has an excellent school system and offers a multitude of cultural events.

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 & BENEFITS

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $36,888.00 - $53,532.00.

Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure

• Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being.
• In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time.
• One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed informatio