Research Technologist - Life Sciences - Intermediate Professional - Vazquez Lab

Research Technologist Intermediate Professional

A position is available immediately for a Research Technologist Intermediate Professional in the Vazquez Lab. The Vazquez Lab studies the evolution of aging-related traits across mammals and the gene regulatory networks that govern them.

Projects in the laboratory include: the evolution of somatic mutations across bats; differences in DNA damage repair across mammals; and population genetics of bats and other mammals. The role's primary responsibilities will be to develop, design, and execute experiments to study epigenetic modifications, chromatin structure, gene expression, and somatic mutations across several species, tissue types, and ages; additional responsibilities include assisting other researchers in the lab with the preparation and execution of their experiments.

Experiments in the lab will include the following techniques: mammalian cell culture (BSL-1, BSL-2, and BSL-2 with BSL-3 safety practices); molecular biology (including: DNA/RNA/Protein extractions, PCR, RT-qPCR, Western blots, and nucleic acid library preparation for sequencing); cellular biology (including: imaging and immunohistochemistry); high-throughput assays (fluorescence- and luminescence-based); and flow cytometry. In addition to their primary responsibilities, the Research Technologist will be required to maintain reproducible records of all experimental notes, procedures, and analyses; and maintain robust and redundant backups of all data in the lab. Due to the collaborative nature of the role, the Research technologist must work effectively in a team setting, be able to communicate well, and must participate in regular lab meetings.

Prior experience in processing tissues and cells to isolate cells and nuclei is required. Additionally, prior experience with library preparation and sequencing-based methods to study DNA modifications (such as bisulfite sequencing or single-molecule long-read sequencing), chromatin accessibility, structure, and modifications (such as ChIP-seq, ATAC-seq, CUT&RUN, FIBER-seq, or DIMELO-seq), or gene expression (such as bulk, single-cell, or single-nuclei RNA sequencing) is also required. Prior experience with analyzing long-read sequencing data or with induced pluripotent stem cell culture is preferred but not required.

Applicants must also have strong organizational skills; attention to detail; the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a research team; good interpersonal skills; a high degree of dexterity and fine motor movements; and the ability to carry containers weighing up to 50-lbs safely.

Minimum Education, Work Experience & Required Certifications

Bachelor's Degree and 1+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted. Required Certifications: None

Application Requirements:

Interested applicants should submit a cover letter describing their research experience and interests, a current CV, and contact information for three references. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

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 $40,608.00 - $58,836.00. 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.

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