Research Technologist - Molecular and Precision Medicine

Penn State University; Hershey, Northern (PA, KY); Hybrid; USD 41,000 - 59,000; Full time

Job summary

The Carrel Lab in the Department of Molecular and Precision Medicine at Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, seeks a Research Technologist to advance life science research using molecular genetics techniques. You will design and execute experiments, train others, and help disseminate findings.

We value organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work with diverse biological samples.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree with 1+ year experience or equivalent combination accepted.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail required.
• Experience with molecular techniques and data analysis desired.
• Comfort working with human patient samples.

Responsibilities

• Perform research and experimental tasks using molecular techniques.
• Troubleshoot experiments with minimal supervision after training.
• Contribute to research design and problem solving.
• Maintain SOPs, training and safety documentation.
• Assist manuscript or grant preparation and data interpretation.
• May supervise undergraduate/graduate project work.

Skills

Organizational skills

Note taking

Data collection

Documentation

Cell culture

RT-qPCR

Sequencing data analysis

Training

Education

Bachelor's Degree 1+ year experience

BS in biological sciences

Job description

POSITION SPECIFICS

The Research Technologist - Life Sciences develops, designs and conducts research projects/experiments in the laboratory/field related to Life Science disciplines including neuroscience, plant science, physiology, pharmacology, microbiology, genomics, bioinformatics, and biotechnology; investigates and evaluates research methods, advises faculty/researchers on optimal use of methodology and equipment; collects, correlates, analyzes, summarizes and reports on results; identifies data integrity issues; trains users in equipment operation and research techniques; and oversees daily operations of project.

Conduct research projects or experiments related to life science areas of study; ensure protocol adherence; review progress and evaluate results

Perform a variety of experimental tasks including assays, material tests, specimen evaluation, and cultures

Execute and develop data collection procedures; record, correlate, and analyze data; prepare analysis summaries

Contribute to the design of research methods; identify potential problems; recommend solutions and technical approaches for problem solving

Make recommendations for the use of data collection, management, and visualization software

Train users in equipment operation and research techniques; explain and demonstrate technology and equipment capabilities, limitations, and outcomes

Develop project protocols; provide input in determining feasibility of goals and objectives; responsible for assuring quality, cost effectiveness and timeliness of assigned projects

Author papers, proposals, presentations and reports in order to disseminate findings to the larger research community

May be responsible for operation of a specialized research area or laboratory

May supervise staff members, including hiring, development, and performance management

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

Bachelor's Degree 1+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted

Required Certifications: None

The Carrel Lab in the Department of Molecular and Precision Medicine at Penn State College of Medicine, in Hershey, PA is seeking a full-time Research Technologist. This individual will perform research on the molecular genetics of complex traits and disorders.

Individuals eager to perform research that utilizes a wide variety of molecular techniques are encouraged to apply.

Position description:

• This position requires strong organizational skills, detailed note taking, data collection and documentation, and attention to detail.
• The successful candidate will be expected to perform and troubleshoot experiments with minimal supervision upon training (50%). With experience, they will be expected to contribute to research design, identify problems and recommend solutions (20%).
• Experimental techniques including cell culture, nucleic acid isolation and analyses, e.g. RT-qPCR, and some aspects of high-throughput sequencing data processing.
• This individual will be isolating and processing cells for genomic analysis and therefore must be comfortable working with human patient samples.
• Additionally, responsible for operational activities of the laboratory including routine laboratory maintenance, ordering supplies, writing SOPs, maintaining training and safety documentation, and making common solutions. (20%)
• Will be expected to assist with aspects of manuscript or grant preparation. (5%)
• May supervise aspects of undergraduate and graduate student projects and training of lab personnel in proper usage of equipment. (5%)

Preferred Qualifications:

• A BS in a biological sciences field.
• Preference will be given to individuals with >1 year of previous genetics, molecular, immunology and/or cell biology research experience.

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 $40,608.00 - $58,836.00.

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 information, please visit our Benefits Page.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR).

The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters.

The ASR is available for review here.

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.

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We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive.

We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.

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