Job Description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

• CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

• CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

• If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click “Apply” and complete the application process for external applicants.

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.

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POSITION SPECIFICS​

The Hanna lab (https://sites.psu.edu/hannalab) is seeking a highly motivated, dedicated, and enthusiastic Research Technologist-Advanced Professional, keen to design, implement, support, and advance exciting on-going research activities. We use a combination of cell biological techniques to elucidate the molecular pathways that detect, limit, and repair damage to lysosomes – organelles that are particularly vulnerable to damage and whose dysfunction is increasingly implicated in neurodegenerative disease.

This position offers the opportunity to work in collaboration with the PI and researchers of all levels to oversee and execute the experimental priorities on high-impact projects designed to establish momentum in the lab. We are a new lab fostering a collaborative space where creative thinking and persistence are celebrated.

Responsibilities:

• Advance the development and execution of experiments involving microscopy (including confocal live-cell imaging), organelle/protein immunoisolation, western blotting, and cell culture (including CRISPR/Cas9-based genetic editing).
• Troubleshoot experimental challenges and provide solutions to technical problems.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret data; maintain accurate records in an electronic lab notebook (ELN); prepare and adhere to new scientific protocols.
• Prepare materials for publications, presentations, grants, and summary reports.
• Assist in the mentoring of trainees in molecular biology skills, biosafety practices, lab policies, and equipment use.
• Maintain a safe, welcoming, and professional laboratory environment while working collaboratively with diverse audiences.
• Assist with lab scheduling and the resolution of day-to-day issues and emergencies.
• Demonstrate strong problem-solving, organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Undertake additional side projects as assigned in support of the lab’s goals.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 

Applicants should (i) have a background related to cell and molecular biology or biochemistry and (ii) demonstrate strong technical, analytical, and communication skills with the ability to work independently and as part of a team. Familiarity with some of the following techniques and areas are not necessary, but are highly desirable: 

• Cell Culture: working with established, immortalized animal cell lines, transfection/electroporation of DNA or RNPs, and genetic editing. 
• Molecular Biology: plasmid transformation and purification, primer design, PCR, and plasmid cloning. 
• : preparation and imaging of live or fixed cultured cells, with experience in confocal microscopy. 
• : western blotting, affinity purification or immunoisolation of proteins. 
• : Use of image analysis software (e.g., ImageJ) and familiarity with protein-fold prediction algorithms (e.g., AlphaFold) for protein structure and protein–protein interaction predictions. 

 

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

Bachelor's Degree 3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted Required Certifications: None

 

Application materials

Please include (i) a brief cover letter summarizing relevant experience and reasons for interest in the job, and (ii) a single pdf with a CV that includes contact information for at least two references (name, position, telephone number, and e-mail address. Applicants may also include in the same single PDF any relevant first-authored works of research spanning papers, reports, posters, and presentations should be attached as full documents in the pdf. Please contact michael.hanna@psu.edu for additional information.

 

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 $42,100.00 - $61,000.00.

 

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.

The Pennsylvania State University 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.

 

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