Part-time Summer Research Intern

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.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

The College Medicine Department of Molecular and Precision Medicine is seeking applicants for a motivated undergraduate student for a part-time summer internship in our molecular microbiology research laboratory. This position is ideally suited for an entry-level student eager to bridge classroom theory with hands-on bench science. You will work closely with graduate students and the Principal Investigator to learn foundational molecular biology techniques, understand bacterial physiology, and contribute to ongoing research projects exploring microbial systems.

Job duties to include:

As a summer intern, you will receive structured mentorship and hands-on training to develop core research competencies:

• Molecular Biology Techniques: Learn and perform fundamental assays, including DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis, and molecular cloning.
• Microbial Culturing: Gain experience in aseptic technique, preparing media, culturing bacterial strains, and monitoring growth kinetics.
• Data Collection & Analysis: Assist in tracking experimental workflows, documenting results accurately in an electronic lab notebook, and analyzing data using basic bioinformatics tools.
• Laboratory Support: Share responsibility for essential daily operations, including solution preparation, autoclaving, and maintaining a clean, organized, and safe workspace.
• Scientific Communication: Participate in weekly laboratory meetings and journal clubs to discuss data, share progress, and practice presenting scientific findings.

Requirements, qualifications, and/or competencies:

• Education: Currently enrolled in an undergraduate program pursuing a degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Biotechnology, or a related life sciences field.
• Coursework: Completion of introductory biology and chemistry courses with associated laboratory modules is required.
• Skills & Attributes:
  • Strong attention to detail and a commitment to laboratory safety protocols.
  • Reliable, punctual, and organized.
  • Excellent communication skills and a collaborative mindset.
  • An eagerness to ask questions, accept feedback, and learn from mistakes.

Schedule:

Approximately 10 to 20 hours a week, flexible scheduling.

Compensation:The starting rate for this job is $18.00 an hour.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

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