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JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

The Penn State College of Medicine, Department of Radiation Oncology, is seeking applicants for a Research Assistant position in Hershey, PA.

The Research Assistant will provide intermediate-level support for biomedical and translational research projects, with a primary focus on understanding the mechanisms of radiation response, radioresistance, and radiation-induced toxicity in head and neck cancer. The successful candidate will assist with laboratory experiments, cell culture, molecular and cellular biology techniques, data collection and analysis, and the preparation of research reports and presentations. The position offers an opportunity to contribute to cancer research aimed at improving the understanding of tumor responses to radiation and identifying potential strategies to enhance treatment outcomes.

This is a part-time position with a maximum of 35 hours per week, paying $16 per hour.

POSITION SPECIFICS

The Research Assistant will support ongoing biomedical research projects by performing laboratory experiments, maintaining cell cultures, collecting and analyzing experimental data, and assisting with the implementation of research protocols. The position involves working with established cancer cell models and molecular and cellular approaches to investigate radiation induced cellular responses and mechanisms contributing to treatment resistance and toxicity.

Responsibilities include:

• Assist with ongoing laboratory research projects under the supervision of the principal investigator and other research personnel.

• Perform routine mammalian cell culture procedures, including cell counting, cell passaging, cryopreservation, and preparation of cells for experiments.

• Assist with laboratory experiments evaluating cancer cell responses to radiation and potential therapeutic treatments.

• Perform molecular and cellular biology techniques, including preparation of samples and reagents and assistance with protein analysis and cell-based assays.

• Conduct/assist in laboratory experiments involving radiation treatment, cell viability, clonogenic survival, and other assays to evaluate cellular responses to radiation and potential therapeutic interventions.

• Prepare culture media, buffers, and other laboratory solutions following established protocols.

• Record experimental procedures and results accurately in laboratory notebooks and maintain organized research records.

• Assist with organizing experimental data and preparing basic data summaries, figures, and presentations.

• Maintain laboratory cleanliness, organize supplies, and assist with routine care of laboratory equipment.

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

Education: Bachelor's degree in a relevant life sciences discipline, such as biology, biotechnology, biochemistry, molecular biology, biomedical sciences, or related field.

Preferred Qualifications:

Knowledge of mammalian cell culture and aseptic laboratory techniques.

Familiarity with experimental data collection, basic statistical analysis, and scientific data presentation.

Strong organizational, documentation, communication, and teamwork skills.

Required Certifications: None

 

 

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

This position requires the following clearances in addition to applicable background checks: PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check.

 

 

 

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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.

 

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