New

Researcher

The Pennsylvania State University
remote work
United States, Pennsylvania, University Park
201 Old Main (Show on map)
Aug 13, 2026
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 is a term position; length of the term will be discussed during the interview process. Continuation past the termlengthdiscussed willbebasedonuniversityneed,performance,and/oravailabilityoffunding. POSITION SPECIFICS The Hanna lab at The Pennsylvania State University is a new, collaborative research group studying the molecular pathways that detect, limit, and repair damage to lysosomes - organelles that are especially vulnerable to injury and whose dysfunction is increasingly implicated in neurodegenerative disease. We are seeking a highly motivated, dedicated, and enthusiastic Researcher, keen to design, implement, and advance our ongoing research activities. In this Researcher position, you will work closely with the PI and researchers at all career stages to shape and execute the experimental priorities on high-impact projects. Working with a high degree of independence, you will apply cutting-edge cell-biological approaches: from live-cell fluorescence microscopy of organelle dynamics to organelle immunoisolation for proteomic and lipidomic characterization and CRISPR/Cas9 genetic editing of mammalian cells. We are a small, close-knit team where creative thinking and persistence are celebrated, and there is plenty of opportunity to learn, contribute ideas, and grow. Job Responsibilities Lead and manage the lab's mammalian cell culture and genetic-editing projects, designing and implementing experiments independently and in coordination with the PI. Design, execute, and advance live-cell and confocal fluorescence microscopy experiments across multiple ongoing projects, and help oversee microscope use in the lab. Develop, apply, and optimize molecular cloning strategies in support of the lab's research goals. Direct and advance the lab's protein and organelle biochemistry efforts, including characterization for proteomic and lipidomic analyses. Collect, analyze, and interpret data; troubleshoot experimental and technical challenges; and maintain accurate, well-organized records. Help train and mentor trainees in laboratory techniques, biosafety practices, lab policies, equipment use, and proper record keeping. Contribute to and help coordinate co-authored publications, grant proposals, presentations, and summary reports. Support day-to-day lab operations and take on additional projects in support of the lab's goals. Education and Experience Applicants must possess a master's degree, or its equivalent, in cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, neuroscience, or a related field. A background in cell and molecular biology or biochemistry, together with strong technical, analytical, and communication skills, is expected, as is the ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Familiarity with several of the following is preferred but not required: mammalian cell culture and genetic editing; molecular cloning and standard molecular biology techniques; fluorescence and confocal microscopy; protein and organelle biochemistry, including western blotting and immunoisolation; and image-analysis software. The interview will be an opportunity to discuss these areas in more detail. Additional Information Applications must be submitted electronically and include a cover letter summarizing relevant experience and interest in the position, a curriculum vitae, and the names and contact information of three professional references. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Questions may be directed to Michael Hanna at michael.hanna@psu.edu. About the Hanna Lab We are a new lab in the Huck Life Sciences Building at the heart of Penn State's University Park campus in State College, PA. Our goal is to do the best, most impactful science possible - and to have fun while doing it. We are committed to a lab culture of mutual respect, kindness, and inclusion, in which people at every career stage are supported, and where accomplishments large and small are celebrated. BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. BENEFITS Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional wellbeing. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans. 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 ourBenefits Page. (Note: For Postdoctoral benefits, please see our Postdoctoral 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. Penn State 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. Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster PA State Labor Law Poster Penn State Policies Copyright Information Hotlines