JOB DESCRIPTION:

The Bordenstein Laboratory at Penn State University's Departments of
Biology and Entomology and the One Health Microbiome Center seeks
a full-time Research Technologist in the Life Sciences (Advanced
Professional) field. This role involves advancing research on the
molecular biology and evolutionary ecology of a widespread symbiosis
between a lysogenic phage, Wolbachia bacteria (found in the reproductive
tissues), and Drosophila melanogaster. The ideal candidate will design,
implement, support, analyze, and report using gene-to-organismal
approaches to dissect a male lethality trait. This position will focus
on various techniques such as fly rearing, transgenic expression,
genetic editing, fitness assays, reproductive tissue dissections,
molecular biology, fluorescent and electron microscopy, and collaborative
discovery. The position is funded for 12 months from the date of hire.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

Applicants must submit a single PDF file containing the following:
1. A cover letter summarizing relevant experience and reasons for
interest in the job. 2. A CV that includes contact information for
at least three references (name, position, telephone number, and email
address). 3. Full-length (all pages) and first-authored works of research
spanning papers, reports, posters, and presentations.

Application website:
https://psu.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/PSU_Staff/job/Penn-State-University-Park/Research-Technologist---Life-Sciences-Advance-Professional---Bordenstein-Lab_REQ_0000074535-1

Lab website: https://bordensteinlab.com/

POSITION INFO:

The successful candidate will have priority responsibilities in the
following areas:

- Experimental design, implementation, analysis, time management, and
reporting - Preparation and adherence to new scientific protocols,
specimen evaluation, and biostatistics - Coauthorship on scientific
papers, grants, presentations, and summary reports - Contribution to
research methods, solutions, and technical approaches for problem-solving
- Data collection, data analysis, statistics, and visualizations -
Management of trainees for molecular biology skills, biosafety measures,
lab policies, equipment, proper record-keeping, organismal maintenance,
and performance reviews -Conduct various experimental tasks, including
insect handling, tissue dissections, biological marker staining,
fluorescent microscopy, microinjections, and genotyping and quantifying
insect and symbiont cells using PCR and qPCR -Daily manage and maintain
laboratory insect colonies, handling hundreds to thousands of insects
daily -Troubleshoot emergencies, answer day-to-day questions from lab
members, and manage laboratory schedules -Assist lab management and
participate in ongoing entomology, microbiology, and molecular biology
experiments as assigned -Maintain a welcoming, safe, and professional
environment that aligns with lab expectations.

EDUCATION AND COMMUNITY:

-Requires a Bachelor's degree or higher, plus three or more years of
relevant work experience, or an equivalent combination of education and
experience -Essential skills include problem-solving, interpersonal,
organizational, communication, and documentation -Successful candidates
should be able to work effectively in a team, demonstrating genuine
appreciation for working, leading, and managing diverse audiences.

Pennsylvania State University, a premier Land-Grant university,
is situated in the picturesque Appalachian mountains of central
Pennsylvania. State College and its surrounding communities are home to
approximately 100,000 people, including over 45,000 students. The area
is renowned for its high quality of life, access to stunning natural
landscapes, including majestic mountains, serene streams, and beautiful
parks, and a wide range of recreational activities and sports. State
College boasts an excellent school system and offers numerous cultural
events.

s.bordenstein@psu.edu

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