Research Support Assistant

Penn State University; Northern (KY); Hybrid; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Part time

Job summary

Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences seeks a part-time Research Support Assistant to assist Dr. Ruairidh Sawers and his group in laboratory, greenhouse, and field-based plant genetic research.

Responsibilities include seed inventory, material prep for planting, and coordinating field activities across seasons and sites. A working knowledge of molecular biology, data management skills, and the ability to operate a vehicle for off-site duties are required.

Qualifications

• Working knowledge of molecular biology to communicate with wet lab team.
• Strong organizational and data-tracking abilities for field and greenhouse activities.
• Basic computer skills including use of shared databases and spreadsheets.

Responsibilities

• Support maize genetics program with seed inventory and material prep for greenhouse and field nurseries.
• Conduct controlled pollinations in greenhouse and field; harvest and seed sorting; assist with greenhouse experiments and data collection.

Skills

Molecular biology knowledge

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Data collection

Tools

Spreadsheet software

Database basics

Job description

## Research Support AssistantApply: Penn State University Park: Part time: Posted Today: REQ\\_0000082309# **APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:*** ## CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.* ## CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.* ## If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click “Apply” and complete the application process for external applicants. **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**Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences seeks to hire a part-time research support assistant to provide technical assistance to Dr. Ruairidh Sawers and his work group in performing laboratory, greenhouse and field-based plant genetic research.Specific Duties:1) The position will support the Sawers group maize genetics program. Duties will include seed inventory, preparation of material for planting in greenhouse and both local and off-site field nurseries, conducting controlled pollinations in the field/greenhouse, harvest, and seed sorting. Other duties include preparing and conducting greenhouse experiments and collecting data and post-harvest sample processing. The candidate will possess the organizational and communication skills required to coordinate field activities across multiple growing seasons, in national and international sites, tracking thousands of seed entries every year, and involving several collaborators and personnel.2) A working knowledge of molecular biology will be required to a level that ensures effective communication with group members in the context of lab management and progress in wet lab procedures. Basic computer skills, including use of shared database and spreadsheet platforms, will be required. Sound organizational skills and a professional working attitude are essential. **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.