Part-Time Research Support Assistant- Roots and Tuber Crops Lab- Duque

Penn State University; University Park (TX); On-site; USD 22,000 - 30,000; Part time

Job summary

Penn State University is hiring part‑time research staff for the RTC-Lab, led by Dr. Luis Duque, to support field, greenhouse, and lab work across Fall, Winter, and Spring 2026‑2027. Positions are open to Penn State students and non-students, with duties spanning crop management, tissue sampling, and data handling.

Background checks may be required and flexibility for multiple semesters is expected. The role offers hands‑on experiences in an active research program, with supervision from the PI

Qualifications

• Penn State students or eligible non-students may apply.
• Experience with basic field, greenhouse, or lab tasks is helpful.
• Willingness to learn data management and collaborate with a PI and collaborators.

Responsibilities

• Assist with field, greenhouse, and laboratory research activities.
• Support research protocols, equipment operation, and maintenance.
• Organize data and communicate with the PI, lab members, and collaborators.
• Contribute to crop management, tissue sampling, and basic lab procedures.

Skills

Field research

Greenhouse work

Data collection

Lab techniques

Tools

Lab equipment

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 Roots and Tuber Crops Lab (RTC-Lab), led by Dr. Luis Duque (PI) of the Department of Plant Science, seeks to hire several Penn State students and non-students to fill part-time research positions throughout the Fall, Winter, and Spring 2026-2027 semesters.

Duties:This role provides hands‑on experience across the field, greenhouse, laboratory, and data management aspects of an active research program, working under the direction of the PI and senior lab personnel. Job duties consist of assisting with field, greenhouse, and laboratory research, including crop management, tissue sampling, data collection, and basic laboratory procedures. Support research protocols, equipment operation and maintenance, data organization, and communication among the PI, lab members, and external collaborators.

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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