Researcher/Research Scientist

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Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.

This is a term position; length of the term will be discussed during the interview process. Continuation past the term length discussed will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.

POSITION SPECIFICS

Researcher / Research Scientist (Non-Tenure Line Faculty)

Pediatric Oncology Translational Research Lab
Penn State College of Medicine – Department of Pediatrics, Hershey, PA

The Beat Childhood Cancer Research Consortium (BCC) at Penn State College of Medicine seeks an innovative and highly motivated Researcher / Research Scientist to join the Pediatric Oncology Translational Research Lab (POTRL). This full-time, on-site non-tenure line faculty position supports the lab's translational research efforts in pediatric oncology and preclinical modeling for BCC's multi-institutional clinical trials network.

Position Summary

The successful candidate will advance translational research initiatives through independent and collaborative studies, data interpretation, and dissemination of findings. The Research Scientist will oversee laboratory operations, guide scientific staff, and contribute to the development of research proposals, publications, and grant applications. This position requires a strong academic research background with the ability to secure external funding aligned with the lab's strategic goals.

Essential Functions

• Lead and conduct independent and collaborative translational research projects within the Pediatric Oncology Translational Research Lab.
• Oversee daily lab operations, research workflows, and regulatory compliance (IACUC, IBC).
• Supervise, mentor, and evaluate laboratory staff and trainees, fostering a productive and collaborative environment.
• Manage research resources, including budgets, equipment, and inventories, ensuring efficiency and quality control.
• Coordinate biological sample collection, processing, and data integration related to BCC clinical trials.
• Prepare and contribute to scientific manuscripts, abstracts, and grant submissions.
• Pursue independent research funding through internal and external grant mechanisms.
• Maintain compliance with institutional, federal, and sponsor regulations.

Minimum Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences, Molecular Biology, Oncology, or a related field (M.D. or equivalent terminal degree considered).
• Demonstrated experience in translational or preclinical cancer research.
• Proven ability to supervise laboratory teams and manage complex research projects.
• Strong record of scholarly productivity, including publications or grant submissions.
• Eligibility to secure independent grant funding.

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.

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 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

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