Advanced Professional Research Technologist in Molecular Biol. of Symbiosis

Job Title: Advanced Professional Research Technologist in Molecular Biol. of Symbiosis

Job Number: 90098

Location: University Park, PA, US

Job Description

MUST APPLY AT THIS LINK: https://psu.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/PSU_Staff/job/Research-Technologist—Life-Sciences-Advanced-Professional_REQ_0000062556-1

**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.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

The Bordenstein Laboratory in Penn State University’s Departments of Biology and Entomology and One Health Microbiome Center seeks two Research Technologist – Life Sciences (Advanced Professional) to advance a new phase of studies on the molecular biology of the symbiosis between Wolbachia and Drosophila melanogaster. The candidate will design, implement, support, analyze, and report using molecule-to-organismal approaches.  This position will heavily focus on the use of fly transgenic expression, genetic editing techniques, fitness assays, reproductive tissue dissections, fluorescent and electron microscopy, viral particle purifications, and team management.

The successful candidate will have priority tasks in the following areas:

-Experimental design, implementation, analysis, time management, and reporting
-Preparation and adherence to new scientific protocols, specimen evaluation, and biostatistics
-Coauthorship of scientific papers, grants, presentations, and summary reports
-Contribution to research methods, solutions, and technical approaches for problem solving
-Data collection, data analysis, statistics, and visualizations
-Management of trainees for molecular biology skills, biosafety measures, lab policies, equipment, proper record keeping, organismal maintenance, and performance review
-Various experimental tasks, including but not limited to insect handling, tissue dissections, biological marker staining, fluorescent microscopy, microinjections, and genotyping and quantification of insect and symbiont cells using PCR and qPCR
-Daily handling and maintenance of laboratory insect colonies at the scale of hundreds to thousands of insects per day
-Troubleshooting of emergencies, day-to-day questions by lab members, and laboratory scheduling
-Assistance of lab management and ongoing entomology, microbiology, molecular biology experiments, as assigned
-Maintenance of a welcoming, safe, and professional environment adherent to lab expectations

Education and Experience:

-Requires at least a Bachelor’s degree or higher plus three or more years of work related experience, 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 team environment and demonstrate a genuine appreciation in working, leading, and managing diverse audiences. 

This position is funded for 12 months from date of hire with excellent possibility of re-funding, pending review of performance.

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability in all of its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, foster a culture of inclusion that supports both broad and specific diversity initiatives, leverage the educational and institutional benefits of diversity in society and nature, and engage all individuals to help them thrive. We value inclusion as a core strength and an essential element of our public service mission.

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 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. 

Application Deadline: 2025-05-30