Part-Time Research Assistant- Agricultural Sciences

The Pennsylvania State University; University Park (PA, TX); On-site; USD 25,000 - 35,000; Part time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking part-time research assistants to support exciting research in plant pathology. This role offers hands-on experience in microbiological and molecular biology techniques, allowing students to enhance their academic learning while contributing to meaningful research projects. Ideal for those passionate about plant health and disease management, this position provides opportunities for independent research and collaboration within a diverse lab environment. Join a team committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion while gaining valuable skills in a supportive atmosphere.

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience in microbiology and molecular biology techniques.
• Ability to assist with laboratory assays and field trials.

Responsibilities

• Prepare bacteria culture media and assist with laboratory assays.
• Conduct DNA extraction and data entry for experiments.

Skills

Microbiological culturing

DNA extraction and analysis

Data entry

Laboratory resource preparation

Education

Bachelor's degree in Biology or related field

Experience in laboratory settings

Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

• CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

• CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

• If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

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

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

Part-time research assistant positions are available in the Bull Lab (https://plantpath.psu.edu/research/labs/bull) in the Department of Plant Pathology and Environmental Microbiology. These positions provide laboratory and field support for research conducted in the Bull Lab. We are a diverse lab team dynamic using a wide variety of microbiology, molecular biology, and plant pathology techniques for authentic research on bacterial diseases of plants funded by federal grants. Students learn a wide variety of skills that allow them to complement their curriculum with hands on learning. Our program conducts research using facilities located in Buckhout Laboratory on the University Park campus. We also have field trials at the Russell E. Larson Agricultural Research Center at Rock Springs. Opportunities also exist for conducting independent research!

Typical duties in this position include, but are not limited to:

• Bacteria culture media preparation
• Microbiological culturing
• Laboratory resource preparation
• Enumeration of bacterial cultures
• Selection of pure cultures of isolates for long-term preservation
• Assist with laboratory assays, including pathogenicity tests
• Assisting with greenhouse and field trials for cultivar resistance to bacterial diseases
• Assist with DNA extraction and analysis
• Data entry of field and laboratory experiments

This job requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid US driver's license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.

Our lab is part of the Rainbow Ag Network (https://agsci.psu.edu/access-equity/rainbow-ag-network) as part of our commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability in all of its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, foster a culture of inclusion that supports both broad and specific diversity initiatives, leverage the educational and institutional benefits of diversity in society and nature, and engage all individuals to help them thrive. We value inclusion as a core strength and an essential element of our public service mission.

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.

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

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action 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.

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