Part-Time Undergraduate Research Assistant - Plant Pathology and Microbiology

Penn State University; State College (Centre County); On-site; USD 17,000 - 24,000; Part time

Job summary

Penn State University in University Park invites two part-time Undergraduate Research Assistants to support the Global Change Pathology Laboratory. You will help with microbiological media preparation, bacterial culturing, inoculation of plants, and disease assessment under supervision.

Training will cover lab safety and aseptic techniques; previous experience is welcome but not required. This position offers hands-on experience in plant pathology and basic molecular biology, with compensation

Qualifications

• Prior or current undergraduate student in a relevant field is preferred but not required.
• Ability to follow written protocols and maintain accurate records.
• Willingness to learn laboratory techniques and work with graduate researchers.

Responsibilities

• Prepare microbiological media and materials.
• Culture and maintain bacteria.
• Prepare inoculum and plant inoculations.
• Perform disease assessments on plants.
• Carry out basic molecular biology procedures.
• Run growth chamber experiments.
• Organize experimental samples and data.

Skills

Bacterial culturing

Aseptic technique

Laboratory safety

Data organization

Protocol adherence

Education

Undergraduate student (major in Plant Pathology or related)

Tools

Growth chamber

Laminar flow hood

Pipettes

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

The Department of Plant Pathology and Environmental Microbiology seeks two part-time Undergraduate Research Assistants to support research activities in the Global Change Pathology Laboratory.

The individuals will assist with ongoing research projects focused on plant-associated and plant-pathogenic bacteria. Primary activities will include preparation of microbiological media and materials, bacterial culturing and maintenance, preparation of bacterial inoculum, plant inoculations, disease assessment, basic molecular biology procedures, growth chamber experiments, and organization of experimental samples and data.

The students will work closely with graduate researchers and will receive training in laboratory safety, aseptic technique, bacterial culture, plant pathology methods, and basic experimental procedures. Additional responsibilities may be assigned depending on ongoing research needs and the students' level of training.

The successful candidates should be dependable, organized, attentive to detail, and willing to learn laboratory and controlled-environment plant research techniques. Previous laboratory or research experience is preferred but not required. Students should be able to follow written protocols, maintain accurate records, work independently after training, and communicate effectively with members of the research team.

Location: Department of Plant Pathology and Environmental Microbiology, Buckhout Laboratory, University Park, PA

Compensation: $15 per hour

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

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.