Part-Time Research Assistant - Tooker Lab

The Pennsylvania State University; State College (Centre County); On-site; USD 20,664 - 27,552; Part time

Job summary

A major research university is seeking part-time lab and field research assistants. Candidates should have a B.S. degree and an interest in ecology and agricultural pest management. Responsibilities include assisting lab members with research projects, working outdoors in varying conditions, and possibly driving university vehicles.

Qualifications

• Interest in ecology, evolution, plant–insect interactions, and/or agricultural pest management.

Responsibilities

• Assist lab members to implement research in lab, greenhouse, and field.
• Work outdoors in hot or wet conditions.
• Occasionally drive university vehicles.

Education

B.S. degree

Job description

Overview

The Tooker Lab in the Department of Entomology at Penn State is accepting applications for part-time (20 hours per week or less) lab and field research assistant positions. Successful applicants are expected to have at least a B.S. degree and be interested in ecology, evolution, plant–insect interactions, and/or agricultural pest management. Some work will be outdoors in hot or wet conditions, and assistants may be asked to drive university vehicles. Some projects focus on ecologically based pest management (e.g., biological control), the role of cover crops in pest control, the influence of pollution on aquatic insect communities, and plants that can "smell" their attackers and then defend themselves. Assistants may gain more independence over time and may work some nights and weekends, but such requests are unlikely to be regular and would stay within the 20-hour-per-week limit. Remote and hybrid work approval is not guaranteed regardless of work location.

Responsibilities

• Assist lab members (graduate students, research scientists) to implement research in the lab, greenhouse, and field settings.
• Work outdoors when required and adapt to hot or wet conditions.
• Occasionally drive university vehicles as part of job duties.
• Possibly work some nights and weekends within the 20-hour-per-week limit.

Qualifications

• Minimum of a B.S. degree.
• Interest in ecology, evolution, plant–insect interactions, and/or agricultural pest management.

This job requires operating a motor vehicle as part of 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.

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability in all forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, foster a culture of inclusion, leverage the benefits of diversity in society and nature, and engage all individuals to help them thrive. We value inclusion as a core strength and essential to our public service mission.

Campus Security and Background Checks

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 and is available for review here. Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

EEO Notice

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.

University Park, PA