Research Technologist- Whitaker Lab

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

CURRENT

PENN STATE EMPLOYEE

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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 3 year(s); continuation past 3 year(s) will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.

POSITION SPECIFICS

The Whitaker Lab, a new research group within the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences at Penn State, invites applications for a Research Technologist. We use a genetic platform that enables the reversible colonization of the human gut by engineered bacteria (https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adu8000). We apply this technology to developing novel genetic tools to probe gut ecosystem and host-microbiome interactions, as well as engineering living medicines to treat chronic diseases. This is a unique opportunity to join a new lab and play a central role in establishing our scientific culture, physical infrastructure, and operational workflows.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Scientific Execution Execute synthetic biology workflows, including PCR and DNA assembly. Training will be provided for techniques such as Golden Gate assembly and next-generation sequencing library preparation. Manage bacterial cultures and perform growth assays. Prior experience with anaerobic chambers is a plus, but we are eager to train candidates with strong general microbiology skills. Support downstream analytical workflows, such as preparing samples for proteomics or metabolomics in coordination with core facilities. Laboratory Operations & Infrastructure Help implement and maintain a modern, AI-assisted Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) to track samples and experiments (previous experience a plus but not required). Develop tools to standardize operational and experimental workflows (no coding experience required). Manage laboratory operations including space organization, chemical inventories, equipment maintenance, and purchasing of consumables. Ensure laboratory spaces remain clean, organized, and compliant with institutional safety policies and regulatory requirements. Team & Scientific Contribution Participate in experimental planning and troubleshooting discussions, with opportunities to co-author manuscripts and assist in grant preparation. Assist in the onboarding and training of new students and staff on protocols and safety procedures. Play a central role in establishing the laboratory's scientific culture and operational foundation as a key member of a new research team.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Previous experience in an academic or industrial laboratory setting, particularly with molecular biology or microbiology techniques. Anaerobic culturing or synthetic biology experience is a plus but not required. Strong attention to detail with the ability to manage complex inventories, maintain meticulous records, and safety compliance. Demonstrated ability to take ownership of projects in a fast-paced environment and a willingness to help establish the culture and workflows of a new organization. A genuine interest in synthetic biology, the microbiome, or the engineering of living medicines.

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 Application Instructions:

Please upload a cover letter describing your interest in synthetic biology, the microbiome, and/or microbial cell therapies, along with your CV/Resume.

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 $34,800.00 - $50,500.00. 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, 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. Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster PA State Labor Law Poster Penn State Policies Copyright Information Hotlines There's a reason Penn State consistently ranks among the top one percent of the world's universities. Across 24 campuses, our 100,000 students and 40,000 faculty and staff know the real measure of success goes beyond the classroom - it's the positive impact made on communities across the world. Our ideals stem from our origins as Pennsylvania's sole land-grant institution, which allow us to continue to bring positive impact to humanity through our teaching, research, and engagement mission. And across the world is a community of Penn Staters - more than half a million strong - driven by that same spirit to serve our local and global communities. At Penn State, passion is met with collaboration in an environment that is rooted in shared pride for the accomplishments of our fellow students, faculty, staff, and alumni. Penn Staters cheer each other on to build a culture committed to service and engagement. Our University values represent our core ethical aspirations for all our daily activities and actions as students, faculty, staff, and volunteers at Penn State. Our values are as follows; Integrity, Respect, Responsibility, Discovery, Excellence, and Community. We Are Penn State. One Community. Impacting Many.