Research Technologist

Position Specifics

The Department of Entomology at Penn State seeks to hire a Research Technologist to oversee multi-site research experiments testing the efficacy of monitoring and management techniques for an invasive pest species. This position is funded for 1 year; continuation past 1 year will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.

Responsibilities

• Engage with multiple external stakeholders (including growers, pesticide manufacturers, park managers, business, etc.) to identify sites at risk of experiencing the invasive pests where research experiments can be conducted.
• Elicit stakeholders to become external cooperators upon whose properties experiments can be conducted.
• Serve as the point of contact to coordinate research activities with these cooperators throughout the course of the research study at that site.
• Use experience with IPM and expertise as a licensed pesticide applicator to provide guidance to identify, select, and apply (or advise growers in their application of) pesticides being tested in research efficacy trials, and ensure their appropriateness with existing IPM programs and that they are used in compliance with Pennsylvania and other partnering states' legal restrictions, and any industry restrictions.
• Help design, review, and revise procedures involved with execution of research experiments conducted by project collaborators (i.e., grant funded partner universities in neighboring states and USDA, industry specialists, etc.) to ensure standardization of all aspects of a study's execution across all replicated sites.
• Serve as a liaison with collaborators to oversee data collection, management, and reporting, and will trouble-shoot methods and findings to ensure project objectives are achieved.
• Contribute to writing papers, manuscripts, publications, and factsheets, and will present project findings to meetings of stakeholders and at other professional meetings.

Requirements

• This position requires a driver's license and a Pennsylvania pesticide applicator license.
• Applicants with experience managing large field-based research projects, and with experience in conducting research and management on invasive pest species, particularly the spotted lanternfly, are especially welcome.
• Seeking candidates with Pesticide Applicator License, category 6 and 7, for ability to treat surrounding areas.

Minimum Education, Work Experience & Required Certifications

• Bachelor's Degree
• 3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
• Required Certifications: None

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.

Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

Salary & Benefits

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $44,628.00 - $64,668.00.

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.