Research Technologist

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JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

TheKantor lab inThe Pennsylvania State University'sDepartment of Plant Pathology and Environmental Microbiology seeks aResearch Technologist to design, implement, support, analyze, and report on rigorous research in plant-nematodes interactions. This position will heavily focus on the North American beech leaf nematode (Litylenchus crenatae ssp. mccannii) interactions with the American beech (Fagus grandifolia), trying to understand how the nematode is transmitted at local and long-distance scale. The successful candidate will have priority tasks in the following areas:

• Guided but generally independent experimental design, implementation, analysis, time management, and reporting.

• Preparation and adherence to new scientific protocols, specimen evaluation, and metabolomics.

• Co-authorship of scientific papers, grants, presentations, and summary reports.

• Contribution to research methods, solutions, and technical approaches for problem-solving.

• Data collection, data analysis, statistics, and microscopy.

• Management of trainees for molecular biology skills, biosafety measures, lab policies, equipment, proper record keeping, organismal maintenance, and performance review.

• Various experimental tasks, including but not limited to sample collection, nematode DNA extraction, PCR and qPCR, nematode identification and counts, flow-cytometry, different microscopy techniques.

• Sample collection and nematode counts from the forest as well as possible insect vectors.

• Troubleshooting emergencies, day-to-day questions by lab members, and laboratory scheduling.

• Experience working with R and Adobe Illustrator desired.

• Assistance with lab management and ongoing nematology,microbiology, and molecular biology experiments, as assigned.

• Maintenance of a welcoming, safe, and professional environment adherent to lab expectations

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

Education and Experience:

This position will be filled at a Plant Sciences Professional level. Requirements include:

• Requires a Bachelor's degree, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Excellent problem-solving, interpersonal, organizational, communication, and documentation skills are essential.

• The successful candidate must be able to work within a team environment and demonstrate a genuine appreciation for working, leading, and managing diverse audiences.

Application Information:

Application materials should include a single pdf with:

• A cover letter summarizing relevant experience and reasons for interest in the job.

• A resume that includes contact information for at least three references (name, position, telephone number, and e-mail address)

• Proof of scientific writing (of any kind- e.g., papers, reports, posters, presentations).

Please contactmpk6148@psu.edufor additional information.

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 salary range for this position, including all possible grades is:

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

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS: