Research Technologist - Aquatic Ecology

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JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

The Pennsylvania State University is seeking a candidate for a Research Technologist to manage the Allen Lab in the Department of Ecosystem Science and Management. The Research Technologist will coordinate and implement tasks associated with field research in streams and laboratory research with field-collected samples. Specific duties include the following:

1. Manage and execute laboratory workflow for macroinvertebrate bulk sample DNA and water eDNA metabarcoding. The Research Technologist will:

• Develop, test, and revise standard operating procedures for DNA extraction, amplification, and library prep

• Prepare and ship/deliver samples for sequencing at another research lab, such as the Penn State Huck Genomics Institute

• Conduct troubleshooting, calibrating, and maintaining of real-time lab equipment

• Track and purchase equipment, consumables, and reagents for experiments

• Organize samples, data files, and software code for easy access

2. Manage and execute field workflow for benthic macroinvertebrate, water sampling, and sensor deployment/maintenance in streams and rivers. The Research Technologist will:

• Develop, test, and revise standard operating procedures for field sampling

• Collect macroinvertebrate and water field samples

• Conduct troubleshooting, calibrating, and maintaining of real-time field sensors

• Track and purchase equipment, consumables, and supplies for field research trips

• Organize samples and data files, and software code for easy access

3. Prepare data reports and summarize literature searches for ongoing and developing research lines. The Research Technologist will:

• Summarize data and assist with writing reports to funding agencies

• Update literature searches and synthesize information for research reports funded by current grants

• Conduct literature syntheses and assist in developing lines of inquiry for new grant proposals

4. Ensure compliance with safety requirements. The Research Technologist will:

• Take a leadership role in ensuring lab safety compliance, proper waste management, and good record keeping

• Update and make accessible standard operating protocols with the assistance of other lab members

5. Train and supervise undergraduate and graduate students in lab and field protocols. The Research Technologist will:

• Take a leadership role in training undergraduate and graduate students in implementing the laboratory workflows outlined in above, implementing the field research workflows outlined above, and in safety protocols outlined above.

This is a limited term position funded for one year from date of hire with good possibility of refunding.

Education and Experience:

Requires a Bachelor's degree (Master's degree preferred) plus three years relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience. 

The following background checks must be successfully completed for this position: 

This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to 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. 

The pay range for this position, including all possible grades is:

$42,100.00 - $61,000.00

Salary Structure - additional information on Penn State's job and salary structure. 

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS:

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here .

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

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

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