Research Technologist-Professional Level

Penn State University; State College (Centre County); On-site; USD 37,000 - 59,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

75% tuition discount

Comprehensive benefits

Job summary

Penn State University seeks a Research Technologist to support a neurodevelopmental genetics program in the Girirajan lab. The role focuses on human samples, cell culture, molecular techniques, and mouse husbandry within a collaborative team.

The ideal candidate holds a Bachelor's Degree with relevant lab experience and is detail-oriented, organized, and capable of independent or team work. Salary and benefits are commensurate with qualifications.

Qualifications

• The candidate must hold a Bachelor's Degree and have relevant laboratory experience.
• Ability to work effectively in a research setting, detail-oriented and organized.
• Preferred experience with cell culture, molecular techniques, mouse handling, or human-subjects research.

Responsibilities

• Assist with human subjects sample collection.
• Perform cell culture and molecular biology techniques.
• Support mouse husbandry, including genotyping and colony management.
• Biological sample processing and general lab operations.
• Ensure compliance with institutional biosafety requirements.

Skills

Cell culture

Molecular biology techniques

Mouse handling

Human subjects research

Laboratory operations

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Tools

Genotyping

Biosafety practices

Inventory management

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

POSITION SPECIFICS

The laboratory of Dr. Santhosh Girirajan at The Pennsylvania State University is seeking a motivated Research Technologist (Professional) to support an active research program focused on understanding the genetic basis of neurodevelopmental disorders using human genetics, mouse models, and cell culture models.

The successful candidate will assist with human subjects sample collection , perform cell culture and molecular biology techniques , and support mouse husbandry , including genotyping and colony management. Responsibilities also include biological sample processing and general laboratory operations such as maintaining laboratory organization, managing inventories, ordering supplies, and ensuring compliance with institutional biosafety requirements.

Applicants should have a bachelor's degree with relevant laboratory experience and the ability to work effectively in a research setting. The ideal candidate will be detail-oriented, organized, and capable of working both independently and as part of a team. Prior experience with cell culture, molecular biology techniques, mouse handling, or human-subjects research is preferred.

Penn State offers a supportive and collaborative research environment, access to outstanding core facilities, and a strong commitment to professional development. Salary and benefits will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

• If filled as Research Technologist - Life Sciences - Professional, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree No prior relevant work experience required; previous relevant work experience accepted in lieu of education.
• Required Certifications: None
• If filled as Research Technologist - Life Sciences - Intermediate Professional, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree 1+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
• 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 & BENEFITS

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

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives,