Part-Time Research Assistant Positions – Plant Pathology and Environmental Microbiology

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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.

About the role

Part-time research assistant positions (spring, summer, and fall) are available in the Esker Lab, Department of Plant Pathology and Environmental Microbiology. These roles support laboratory and fieldwork for the plant disease epidemiology program, focusing on research on field crops such as corn, soybeans, and wheat. We are a dynamic lab that employs various methods to manage plant diseases, supported by federal grants and funding from commodity groups and industry partners. Our research is carried out using facilities at Buckhout Laboratory on the University Park campus. We also conduct field trials at the Russell E. Larson Agricultural Research Center in Rock Springs, the Southeast Agricultural Research and Extension Center in Manheim, and across Pennsylvania as part of the Soybean On-Farm Network. Opportunities are also available for independent research!

Responsibilities

• Fungal culture media preparation
• Microbiological culturing and isolation of soil and seed-borne fungal pathogens
• Enumeration of fungal colonies
• Selecting pure cultures of isolates for long-term preservation
• Microscopic evaluation and identification of fungal cultures
• Affixing to laboratory assays, including pathogenicity tests and fungicide sensitivity studies
• Affixing to DNA extraction and quality check of fungal isolates from different genomic projects
• Collecting soil and plant samples from field and greenhouse experiments and providing necessary assistance with sample processing before analysis/evaluation
• Performing germination tests for corn, soybean, and wheat seed samples from field trials
• Assessing plant diseases from research studies conducted in the field, as well as in greenhouse or growth chamber trials
• Data entry of field and laboratory experiments

Requirements

Background checks/clearances are required as part of employment with the University. 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.

Qualifications

Preference will be given to candidates with a strong background in plant pathology, microbiology, or related fields. Experience with fungal culture media preparation, microbiological culturing, and field research is preferred. Knowledge of molecular biology techniques and experience with data entry and statistical analysis are also beneficial.

Skills

Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to work independently and as part of a team are essential. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and familiarity with laboratory equipment and safety protocols are required.

Benefits

The Esker Lab offers a supportive and collaborative environment with opportunities for professional development and advancement. Employees may also have access to health insurance, retirement plans, and other benefits offered by the University.

Pay

The pay for this position is determined based on the qualifications and experience of the candidate. Salary details will be provided during the interview process.

Schedule

The schedule for this position varies depending on the availability of research projects and the needs of the lab. Typically, the position involves working 20-30 hours per week during the spring, summer, and fall semesters.

Note: 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.