Research Technologist/Project Coordinator

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

About the role

The Department of Ecosystem Science and Management and the Department of Animal Science at The Pennsylvania State University are seeking a highly organized and motivated individual for a Research Technologist / Project and Outreach Coordinator position. This professional staff position will support the research programs of Dr. Estelle Couradeau and Dr. Erika Ganda (50/50 split) by providing laboratory, project management, and outreach coordination support across multiple research projects. The position integrates laboratory operations, technical research support, project coordination, stakeholder engagement, and science communication activities. The successful candidate will play a central role in ensuring the efficient operation of two research laboratories while helping coordinate project activities, outreach initiatives, and communication efforts. This position offers opportunities to develop expertise in laboratory management, microbiology and molecular biology research, project coordination, stakeholder engagement, science communication, and data management.

Responsibilities

• Manage laboratory purchasing, budget tracking, and supply ordering; maintain accurate records of expenditures and assist with financial documentation.
• Support laboratory experiments and technical activities, including molecular and microbiological procedures such as DNA extraction, sample processing, and maintenance of laboratory protocols and standard operating procedures.
• Maintain laboratory organization, inventory systems, laboratory safety records, equipment, and shared resources to ensure efficient laboratory operations.
• Coordinate project activities, including scheduling meetings, tracking milestones and deliverables, maintaining project documentation, and facilitating communication among project participants.
• Organize and support outreach and engagement activities with schools, community partners, collaborators, and research participants; assist with educational programming, curriculum development, and dissemination of project materials.
• Support data management, data processing, and basic data analysis activities; assist in the preparation of reports, presentations, educational materials, and communication products.
• Coordinate science communication activities, including multimedia content, public engagement events, podcasts, exhibits, and other outreach initiatives.
• Maintain effective communication with laboratory personnel, project collaborators, external partners, and university staff to ensure projects remain on schedule and laboratory needs are met.
• Operate a motor vehicle as part of job duties; a valid driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check are required.

Requirements

• Strong organizational, project management, and time-management skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and common data management tools.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.

Qualifications

Bachelor's Degree. No prior relevant work experience required; previous relevant work experience accepted in lieu of education.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in microbiology, molecular biology, soil science, ecosystem science, environmental science, animal science, or related disciplines.
• Experience with laboratory operations, inventory management, and laboratory safety practices.
• Experience with project coordination, stakeholder engagement, education, outreach, or science communication.
• Experience with data analysis software such as R and familiarity with GitHub or other collaborative data platforms.
• Experience working with educational partners, agricultural stakeholders, community organizations, or research participants.

Pay

The salary range for this position is $36,888.00 - $53,532.00.

Benefits

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. Benefits include:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off (holidays, vacation, and sick time).
• 75% tuition discount for employees, eligible spouses, and children.