Research Lab Technologist

Key Responsibilities

• 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.
• Aid in 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.
• Maintain 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

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.

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, 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.