Soil Fertility & Nutrient Management Lab - Part-Time Undergraduate Research Internship

Penn State Lady Lions; State College (Centre County); On-site; USD 18,000 - 26,000; Part time

Job summary

Penn State Lady Lions is seeking an enthusiastic undergraduate intern to assist with field and laboratory research on nutrient cycling, fertilizer and manure management, and water quality dynamics in agroecosystems. The position offers hands-on experience from field sampling to lab analysis, with mentorship opportunities in data analysis, scientific writing, and presenting findings.

Hours are 10–15 per week during the academic semester, with up to 40 hours/week in summer.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled Penn State undergraduate student majoring in Environmental Resource Management (ERM), Agroecology, Plant Science, Animal Science, or a closely related discipline.
• Preferred: Prior coursework in soil science, agronomy, or environmental sciences.
• Willingness to work in varied outdoor weather conditions during field sampling campaigns.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to laboratory safety protocols.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a research team.
• Valid U.S. drivers license is required for travel to local field sites.

Responsibilities

• Field Sampling: Assist in collecting soil samples, plant biomass samples, and runoff/water samples at the Rock Springs research farm.
• Laboratory Analysis: Process and analyze soil, plant, and water samples using laboratory techniques and instrumentation.
• Data Management & Research Growth: Assist with data organization and learn statistical analysis (e.g., R, SAS); explore co-authoring extension articles or presenting findings.

Skills

ERM major interest

Agroecology

Plant Science

Animal Science

Data analysis interest

Education

Undergraduate student

Tools

R

SAS

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

The Soil Fertility and Nutrient Management Laboratory in the Department of Plant Science (led by Dr. Charlie White) is seeking an enthusiastic undergraduate student intern to assist with ongoing field and laboratory research projects evaluating nutrient cycling, fertilizer and manure management, and water quality dynamics in agroecosystems.

This position offers hands-on experience spanning the entire research workflow-from field plot sampling to laboratory analysis. For interested students, this role can also provide an opportunity for mentorship in scientific data analysis, presentation preparation, scientific writing/publishing, and networking with industry collaborators.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, seeNotice to Out of State Applicants.

Key Responsibilities

• Field Sampling: Assist in collecting soil samples, plant biomass samples, and runoff/water samples across a variety of experiments at the Rock Springs research farm.
• Laboratory Analysis: Process and analyze soil, plant, and water samples using various laboratory techniques and instrumentation.
• Data Management & Research Growth (Optional / Based on Interest): Assist with data organization, learn statistical analysis (e.g., R, SAS), and explore opportunities to co-author extension articles, scientific manuscripts, or present findings at regional events.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled Penn State undergraduate student majoring in Environmental Resource Management (ERM), Agroecology, Plant Science, Animal Science, or a closely related agricultural/environmental discipline.
• Preferred: Prior coursework in soil science, agronomy, or environmental sciences.
• Willingness and ability to work in varied outdoor weather conditions during field sampling campaigns.
• Strong attention to detail, commitment to laboratory safety protocols, and good record-keeping practices.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a research team.
• Valid U.S. driver's license is required for travel to local field sites using university vehicles.

Position Details & Schedule

• Hours: 10-15 hours per week during the academic semester, with potential for up to 40 hours/week during the summer.
• Start Date: Immediately, Fall Semester 2026.
• Compensation: Hourly wage commensurate with experience.
• Location: Agricultural Sciences and Industries (ASI) Building with local field travel.

Compensation:

The starting rate for this job is $16/hour.

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.

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