Harnessing fungi for food and biomaterials

The Wee lab in the Department of Food Science, Penn State - University Park is looking to fill two undergraduate research positions in fungal foods and biomaterials beginning Summer 2023 or as soon as able. In the first project, we are optimizing and characterizing fungi for degradation of plastics in collaboration with Penn State Behrend funded by the Institute of Energy and Environment. In project 2, we are developing mycelium bioscaffold for cell-based meat. Projects in our laboratory center around fungal biology and mycology within the context of food and biomaterials.

Campus(es): 
University Park
Work Setting(s): 
On campus
Area(s): 
Any
Description of responsibilities and minimum qualifications: 

Responsibilities and Expectations: Undergraduate research assistants in our team typically commit 8-10 hours/week during the Spring/Fall semester and 30-40 hours/week during Summer. Employment is based on availability of funding and performance. Undergraduate research responsibilities include but not limited to:

  • Microbiology: Preparation of growth media, growth of fungi, spore stock preparation
  • Molecular biology: DNA extraction, gel electrophoresis, Sanger sequencing
  • Cell culture: Preparation of growth media, maintenance of mammalian cell culture
  • Basic microscopy
  • General laboratory safety and housekeeping: complete safety training and university requirements, general laboratory cleaning and maintenance such as glassware cleaning and autoclave use for sterilization and waste handling
  • Collaboration with graduate and/or senior undergraduate researcher
  • No animal or work in humans
Available Term(s): 
On-going
Position Type(s): 
Paid
Number of positions available: 
3
Application Instructions: 

Please email Dr. Josephine Wee (jmw970@psu.edu) with a cover letter and resume. In your cover letter, please share your interest, why do you want to conduct research, and why are you a good fit for this position. Include "Undergraduate research position - fungal biomaterials" in email subject.

Last Updated: 
March 10, 2023