Part-Time Research Project Assistant - Agroforestry and Dryland Systems

Penn State University; University Park (TX); On-site; USD 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Penn State University is seeking a Research Project Assistant to support research on dryland agroforestry systems, sustainable land use, and related development topics. You will help with a book project, case studies, manuscripts, and proposals, conducting literature searches, organizing references, and preparing visuals.

The role emphasizes independence, strong writing and editing skills, careful citation practices, and effective collaboration with project partners.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in forestry, agroforestry, environmental science, geography, agriculture, international development, or related field.
• Strong research, writing, editing, and organizational skills.
• Ability to locate, evaluate, and synthesize scholarly literature.
• Careful attention to accuracy, citations, and detail.

Responsibilities

• Conduct targeted literature searches and prepare concise research summaries.
• Organize and maintain references and PDFs using Zotero.
• Compile information for dryland agroforestry case studies from scholarly sources.
• Verify citations, factual claims, and bibliographic information.
• Develop tables, figures, timelines, maps, and other research materials.
• Organize interview notes, datasets, photographs, and case-study documentation.
• Assist with comparative analysis across case-study regions.
• Support preparation and editing of manuscripts, book chapters, presentations, reports, and proposals.
• Communicate with collaborators and help coordinate interviews and project activities.
• Maintain clear records of sources, completed work, and outstanding tasks.
• Use AI-assisted research tools appropriately and transparently, with outputs checked against original sources.

Skills

Research skills

Writing

Editing

Organizational skills

Literature evaluation

Communication skills

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

PowerPoint

Independent work

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Zotero

Reference-management software

Job description

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

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

The Research Project Assistant will support research on traditional dryland agroforestry systems, sustainable land use, and related international development topics. The position will primarily assist with a book project and associated case studies, manuscripts, presentations, and research proposals.

Primary responsibilities

• Conduct targeted literature searches and prepare concise research summaries.

• Organize and maintain references and PDFs using Zotero.

• Compile information for dryland agroforestry case studies from scholarly and credible institutional sources.

• Verify citations, factual claims, and bibliographic information.

• Develop tables, figures, timelines, maps, and other research materials.

• Organize interview notes, datasets, photographs, and case-study documentation.

• Assist with comparative analysis across case-study regions.

• Support preparation and editing of manuscripts, book chapters, presentations, reports, and proposals.

• Communicate with collaborators and help coordinate interviews and project activities.

• Maintain clear records of sources, completed work, and outstanding tasks.

• Use AI-assisted research tools appropriately and transparently, with all outputs checked against original sources.

Required qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in forestry, agroforestry, environmental science, geography, agriculture, international development, or a related field.

• Strong research, writing, editing, and organizational skills.

• Demonstrated ability to locate, evaluate, and synthesize scholarly literature.

• Careful attention to accuracy, citations, and detail.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

• Ability to work independently, manage multiple assignments, and meet deadlines.

• Strong communication skills.

Preferred qualifications

• Master’s degree or relevant research experience.

• Knowledge of agroforestry, drylands, land-use systems, or international development.

• Experience with Zotero or comparable reference-management software.

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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