Part-Time Research Assistant – 3PL Warehouse Industry Impact Study

The Pennsylvania State University; University Park (TX); On-site; USD 28,000 - 41,000; Part time

Job summary

Penn State University Park invites applications for a part-time research assistant to support data collection, cleansing, processing, and analysis for supply chain research. The role involves up to 10 hours per week for about six weeks, under the supervision of Dr. Saurabh Bansal and Dr.

Donna Palumbo. The candidate will work remotely or on campus as arranged and will prepare visuals and reports for ongoing projects.

Qualifications

• Must ensure high-quality data collection, integrity, and readiness for analysis.
• Strong command and background in data management and experience working with varying sizes of data sets.
• Ability to analyze complex data sets and derive meaningful insights; includes quantitative and qualitative analysis and recommendations for further research and action.

Responsibilities

• Seek out and collect structured and unstructured data.
• Cleanse, process, and organize supply chain datasets from various web sources, industry reports, industry organizations, public data sources to support business intelligence and research.
• Cleanse and process data for accuracy and consistency, preparing it for analysis.
• Analyze to identify trends, patterns, or insights and present findings through visualizations and reports.

Skills

Data management

Data analysis

Data cleansing

Visualization

Independent work

Communication

Education

Tools

Excel

SQL basics

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

The Center for Supply Chain Research at Penn State University Park invites applications for one part-time research assistant to start in November 2026. The successful candidate will assist Dr. Saurabh Bansal and Dr. Donna Palumbo for up to 10 hours per week for approximately 6 weeks.

Job Duties:

• Seek out and collect structured and unstructured data
• Cleanse, process, and organize supply chain datasets from various web sources, industry reports, industry organizations, public data sources (i.e. census, public intelligence) to support business intelligence and research
• Cleanse and process data for accuracy and consistency, preparing it for analysis
• Analyze to identify trends, patterns, or insights and present findings through visualizations and reports

Required Qualifications:

• Must be able to ensure high-quality data collection, integrity, and readiness for analysis
• Strong command and background in data management and experience working with varying sizes of data sets.
• Ability to analyze complex data sets and derive meaningful insights; includes quantitative and qualitative analysis and recommendations for further research and action.
• Meticulous in ensuring data accuracy and handling exceptions or anomalies in data.
• Capable of translating data into readable information and accessible formats (i.e. Excel spreadsheets, data sets).
• Ability to develop data tables and visualizations (heat maps, charts, info graphics) to help illustrate findings.
• Capable of developing innovative solutions to overcome technical challenges encountered during data collection and information preparation.
• Ability to present findings in professional preparing report and presentation formats suitable for publication.
• Ability to work independently with little guidance and provide regular updates to project leadership and participate in regular virtual calls/meetings.

Candidates with questions may contact the department assistant, Autumn Knepp, at [e-mail].

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

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.

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