Research Technologist

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JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

The McReynolds Laboratory at The Pennsylvania State University in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology is currently seeking a Research Technologist to assist with our  CABBI (Center for Advanced Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation) related projects funded through the Department of Energy. The ability to metabolically manipulate and engineer microorganisms is a promising strategy to produce biofuels and chemicals.

Over the last decade, there has been great effort towards characterizing the non-model yeast strains Issatchenkia orientalis , Yarrowia lipolytic , and Rhodosporidium toruloides as biofactories for manufacturing chemicals and biofuels. However, manipulation of these systems can create an imbalance of redox cofactors and product toxicity. A balanced supply and consumption of cofactors can greatly influence the performance of metabolically engineered yeast strains. Therefore, addressing cofactor imbalance in non-model yeast strains will significantly enhance the yield of the bioproducts being generated by I. orientalis , Y. lipolytic , and R. toruloides . With that being said, we are using our lab’s expertise in mammalian redox metabolism and homeostasis to investigate the impact of bioproduction on cofactors and identify metabolic vulnerabilities that trigger imbalance of cofactors when engineering biofactories in these systems. This opportunity is for a research technologist to join our research team to contribute to our CABBI related projects in the McReynolds Lab. Taken together, this will help drive the characterization of metabolic regulation in I. orientalis , Y. lipolytic , and R. toruloides , and serve as a wonder opportunity for career development, mentoring, and training.

Specific duties include:

• Media preparation

• Culture maintenance

• Handling molecular biology techniques and assays associated with CABBI related projects (i.e., qPCR and cloning)

• Assist the lab manager with placing orders and ensuring proper inventory of materials and supplies

• Assist in maintaining lab safety protocols and compliance.

• Assist in the development and implementation of policies and procedures or lab operations to ensure safety and efficiency of the laboratory.

Education and Experience

This position typically requires a Bachelor's Degree or higher in a related field, plus 1+ years of related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Additionally, we seek candidates with:

• Strong attention to detail

• Excellent communication and organizational skills

• Ability to work and perform in both a team environment and in isolation

• Excellent documentation and organizational skills with the ability to keep accurate records of all work performed

• Strong work ethic, including ability to take initiative, prioritize tasks, use good judgment, and complete duties

Although not required, other relevant experience includes:

• Research experience

• Yeast/bacterial culturing

• Familiar with molecular biology techniques

Additional Information

Application materials should include a cover letter summarizing relevant experience and reasons for interest in the job, along with a CV/resume that includes contact information for two references (name, position, telephone number, and e-mail address). Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position has been filled.

This is a limited-term staff position, funded for one year from the date of hire, with an excellent possibility for renewal.

This position will require successful completion of standard background checks.  

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in all of its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, foster a culture of inclusive excellence that supports both broad and specific diversity initiatives, leverage the educational and institutional benefits of diversity, and engage all individuals to help them thrive. We value inclusive excellence as a core strength and an essential element of our public service mission. 

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

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