Part-time Research Support Assistant- Straw Lab

Penn State University; State College (Centre County); On-site; USD 17,000 - 25,000; Part time

Job summary

Penn State University’s Straw Lab in the Department of Plant Science is seeking a part-time Research Assistant to support turfgrass field and lab trials, including plot maintenance, data collection, equipment setup, and general research support.

The position starts in November 2026 and will work up to 20 hours per week. Applicants must be able to work outdoors and have a valid driver's license; operating a university vehicle requires background checks. Remote or hybrid work is not guaranteed.

Qualifications

• Part-time research position in turfgrass field and lab environments.
• Must be able to work outdoors and follow detailed instructions.

Responsibilities

• Assist with field plot maintenance and data collection.
• Set up and operate turfgrass research equipment.
• Provide general support for turfgrass field and lab trials.

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

The Straw Lab in the Department of Plant Science is hiring part-time Research Assistants to support turfgrass research.

Duties include assisting with field plot maintenance, data collection, equipment setup, and general research support of turfgrass field and lab trials.

Position is anticipated to start in November 2026, and will work up to 20 hours per week. Applicants must be able to work outdoors and follow instructions. A valid driver's license is required, and operation of a university vehicle will require a motor vehicle records check and background check.

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.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver's license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.

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.