Research Technologist- Whitaker Lab

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, seeNotice 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 ( 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 DegreeNo 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. 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