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Pennsylvania State University

Research Technologist - Life Sciences - Cell and Biological Systems

🇺🇸 Hershey, PA

🕑 Full-Time

💰 $35K - $51K

💻 Research

🗓️ November 25th, 2025

Edtech.com's Summary

The Pennsylvania State University is hiring a Research Technologist - Life Sciences - Cell and Biological Systems. The role involves supporting research in Dr. Kenneth Lee's lab by performing plasmid construction, protein expression and purification, biochemical assays, fluorescence microscopy, and cell culture maintenance across multiple cell types, along with administrative tasks such as lab ordering and data preparation for presentations.

Highlights
  • Conduct plasmid construction and isolation, protein expression and purification, biochemical assays, and fluorescence microscopy.
  • Maintain and transduce bacterial, yeast, insect, and mammalian cell lines in cell culture.
  • Perform lab ordering, organization, and prepare data for manuscripts, group meetings, and conferences.
  • Receive training in molecular biology, biochemistry, and cell biology techniques.
  • Requires a Bachelor's Degree; relevant work experience may substitute for education.
  • No certifications required.
  • Salary range: $34,800 to $50,500.
  • Benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, vision coverage, retirement plans, paid time off, and a 75% tuition discount for employees and eligible family members.
  • Position funded for 1 year with potential continuation based on university needs, performance, and funding availability.
  • Applicant must be authorized to work in the U.S. Background check required; visa sponsorship not provided.

Research Technologist - Life Sciences - Cell and Biological Systems Full Description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:


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.
POSITION SPECIFICS
The laboratory of Dr. Kenneth Lee at the Penn State College of Medicine, Department of Cell and Biological Systems in Hershey, PA, conducts research on membrane transport proteins and is developing a new research program to understand the mechanisms of cancer and neurodegenerative diseases using structural and functional approaches in vitro and in vivo. A Research Technologist is being sought to provide research support in the lab. The successful candidate will undertake routine approaches in plasmid construction and isolation, protein expression and purification, biochemical assays, fluorescence microscopy, and maintenance and transduction of bacterial, yeast, insect and mammalian cell lines in cell culture. Responsibilities also include performing lab ordering, lab organization and preparation of data for presentation in manuscripts, group meetings and conferences. The research technologist will receive training in a dynamic and supportive environment in standard and advanced techniques in molecular biology, biochemistry and cell biology that are broadly applicable to many areas of specialization.
 
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONSBachelor's DegreeNo prior relevant work experience required; previous relevant work experience accepted in lieu of 
education.Required Certifications:None
 
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 & BENEFITSThe 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.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.