Part-time Undergraduate Student Support: Turfgrass Science

The Pennsylvania State University; Ferguson Township (PA); On-site; USD 18,000 - 26,000; Part time

Job summary

The Pennsylvania State University’s College of Agriculture invites applications for a part-time Undergraduate Research Support Assistant in Turfgrass Science at the Valentine Turfgrass Research Center. The role supports field and applied research projects and provides hands-on experience in practical turfgrass science.

Your duties include assisting with experiments under faculty and graduate students, collecting data on growth, physiology, and environmental conditions, helping build and maintain

Qualifications

• Background in plant science, agronomy, horticulture, or a related field preferred.
• Willingness and ability to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions.
• Ability to work early morning hours or late evenings as required by research protocols.
• Basic mechanical skills preferred (hand tools, minor repairs, assemble structures).
• A valid US driver’s license is required (may operate a university vehicle).

Responsibilities

• Assist in the implementation of turfgrass research experiments under the direction of faculty, graduate students, and research staff.
• Collect, record, and organize data related to turfgrass growth, physiology, stress responses, and environmental conditions.
• Assist graduate student in the construction and upkeep of research infrastructure (e.g., shade structures).
• Collect weed samples, including seed collection.

Skills

Outdoor work

Basic mechanical skills

Valid US driver\'s license

Education

Background in plant science / agronomy / horticulture

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

The College of Agriculture is seeking applicants for a part-time Undergraduate Research Support Assistant position in Turfgrass Science. This position supports ongoing field and applied research projects at the Valentine Turfgrass Research Center.

Job duties to include:

• Assist in the implementation of turfgrass research experiments under the direction of faculty, graduate students, and research staff.
• Collect, record, and organize data related to turfgrass growth, physiology, stress responses, and environmental conditions.
• Assist graduate student in the construction and upkeep of research infrastructure (e.g., shade structures).
• Collect weed samples, including seed collection.

Requirements, qualifications, and/or competencies:

• Background in plant science, agronomy, horticulture, or a related field preferred.
• Willingness and ability to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions.
• Ability to work early morning hours or late evenings as required by research protocols.
• Basic mechanical skills preferred (e.g., ability to use hand tools, perform minor repairs, assemble structures).
• A valid US driver’s license is required (but personal vehicle not required), as the job may involve operating a university vehicle.

Schedule: 20 plus hours a week Compensation: $16.00/hour

Candidates with questions can reach out to Dr. Manoj Chhetri at [e-mail].

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.

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