New

Lab Coordinator, Department of Plant Pathology and Environmental Microbiology

The Pennsylvania State University
paid time off, sick time, remote work
United States, Pennsylvania, University Park
201 Old Main (Show on map)
Sep 04, 2025
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS: CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday. CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday. If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants. Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.For additional information on remote work at Penn State, seeNotice to Out of State Applicants. This position is funded for 1 year(s); continuation past 1 year(s) will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding. POSITION SPECIFICS TheKantor lab inPenn State University'sDepartment of Plant Pathology and Environmental Microbiology seeks aLab Coordinator - Life Sciences (Professional)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 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 maintaining an inclusive and respectful environment for all students and colleagues. Additional Information: Application materials should include a single pdf with (i) a cover letter summarizing relevant experience and reasons for interest in the job, (ii) a resume that includes contact information for at least three references (name, position, telephone number, and e-mail address) and (iii) proof of scientific writing (of any kind- e.g., papers, reports, posters, presentations). Please contactmpk6148@psu.edufor additional information. MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS Bachelor's Degree No prior relevant work experience required; previous relevant work experience accepted in lieu of education. Required Certifications: None BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES 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 $38,300.00 - $55,500.00. Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure 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. 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. EEO IS THE LAW Penn State is an equal opportunity 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. The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission. 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