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Penn State Job Catalog

Core Research Technologist – Professional (PSU2301)

Additional Levels

Job Summary

The Core Research Technologist provides consultation and guidance for users on specialized research methods and techniques within a core lab facility; guides users on experimental design, instrument capabilities, and analysis techniques; provides data reports for customers; oversees daily lab operations related to safety, compliance, inventory, scheduling, and budget; ensures the availability of high-quality services for the University research community.

Representative Duties

  • Apply knowledge of scientific principles, concepts, and methods to design, update, document, and execute experimental protocols; develop operating procedures for a core lab facility
  • Collaborate with investigators to develop specialized research procedures, experiments, or simulations; leverage the facility’s specialized equipment or services
  • Oversee the operation, maintenance, and quality control of research instruments; evaluate performance to ensure accurate results; consult customers on instrument capabilities and procedures; deliver training for users
  • Manage and analyze sample data; develop result reports for customers and investigators
  • Provide guidance and consultation for lab users related to theories, experimental design, instrument and technology operation, and analysis techniques; align methods with research goals; identify and solve analytical challenges to ensure experimental success
  • Receive lab supplies and monitor inventory; ensure the efficiency and safety of the research environment; ensure daily lab operations are compliant with University, sponsor, and federal rules and regulations
  • Maintain core facility systems and applications related to daily operations including scheduling, ordering, and billing activities
  • Oversee lab safety including delivering training, developing safety protocols, and maintaining safety and compliance documentation
  • Review scientific literature and participate in seminars or workshops to maintain awareness of new technologies; provide input for the testing and adoption of new methods
  • Develop and deliver educational courses and workshops; promote the activities and emerging technologies of the lab through tours and demonstrations
  • Provide input for the development of new core services; participate in multidisciplinary research collaborations that advance and extend the core’s research capabilities and impact

Level Matrix

Level:
Professional
Base Description:
– Completes activities, tasks, and/or projects of a functional nature.
Level Summary:
– Demonstrates baseline working knowledge of routine work tasks. Follows the standard principles and practices. Acts under direct and frequent supervision using established procedures with detailed instructions. Participates as a team member and actively contributes to completion of team goals. Clearly communicates information.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
– None
Fiscal Responsibilities:
– Typically none
Problem Solving:
– Encounters routine problems
– Follows recommended course of action and procedures to resolve problems
Independence of Action:
– Work is closely monitored by supervisor
– Detailed instructions and procedures are provided
– Applies standard operating procedures with limited guidelines for deviation
Communication and Collaboration:
– Typically communicates internally within working unit
– Collaborates closely with team members
– Clearly communicates information, ideas, or instructions verbally and in writing
Salary Structure
  • Comp Grade – 5
  • Minimum – $38,300.00
  • MidPoint – $46,900.00
  • Maximum – $55,500.00
FLSA Exemption Status
Non-Exempt
Minimum Education
Bachelor's Degree
Minimum Experience
No prior relevant work experience required
Equivalency
Or an equivalent combination of education and experience
Additional Job Requirements