Part-Time Research Assistant – Lieurance Invasion Ecology Lab

Penn State University; State College (Centre County); On-site; USD 23,419 - 30,307; Part time

Job summary

A prestigious research university is seeking a Part-Time Research Assistant to assist in conducting invasion status assessments on non-native species in the US. The role involves training with USDA sponsors, conducting literature reviews, and completing status assessments of invasive plants. Ideal candidates are current students in a related field and possess strong skills in literature reviews and data analysis. This position offers valuable experience in ecological research and the potential for future opportunities.

Qualifications

• Assist with sponsored research on invasion status assessments of non-native species.
• Complete literature reviews and status assessments.
• Attend regular meetings and participate in discussions.

Responsibilities

• Conduct invasion status assessments on non-native plants.
• Train with USDA sponsors on best practices.
• Review and assist in finalizing completed assessments.

Skills

Literature reviews

Data analysis

Technical writing

Education

Current student in related field

Job description

Part-Time Research Assistant – Lieurance Invasion Ecology Lab page is loaded## Part-Time Research Assistant – Lieurance Invasion Ecology Lablocations: Penn State University Parktime type: Part timeposted on: Posted Todayjob requisition id: REQ\_0000077188# **APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:*** ## CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please to complete the. 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 to complete the Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.* ## If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click “Apply” and complete . **Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see .** **JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS**Dr. Lieurance in the Department of Ecosystem Science and Management currently has an opening for paid part-time research assistant(s). The successful candidate will assist with sponsored research conducting invasion status assessments on non-native species present in the US. Duties include training with US Dept. of Agriculture sponsors, completing status assessments of non-native plants, conducting literature reviews, assisting in reviewing completed assessments, attending regular meetings, and other tasks related to invasion assessments.Please submit an application with a resume/CV and short statement detailing your interest. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position(s) have been filled.Context:This agreement will support the use of the USDA-APHIS-PPQ Weed Status Assessment (WSA), a process that helps determine how invasive certain high-risk non-native plants are in the United States. The results will guide which weeds should be prioritized for classical biological control—using natural enemies, such as insects or pathogens, to manage them. In the past, these targets were often chosen based on expert opinion or requests from local land managers. While valuable, that approach can be subjective. The WSA uses a more evidence-based method, combining scientific data, modeling, and input from stakeholders to make decisions that are more effective, efficient, and transparent. It looks at where a plant is currently found, how quickly it could spread, the damage it causes, and how difficult it is to control. This information helps ensure that biocontrol programs focus on the species where they can have the greatest impact. **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 . **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.