Research Technologist - Root Agroecology Lab

• 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.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

The Fleishman Root Agroecology Lab in the Plant Science Department at The Pennsylvania State University seeks a Research Technologist to support research on perennial root systems and their impact on crop health and soil quality. Field research crops include grapevines, tree fruit, turfgrass, and forages. The role includes support of field and greenhouse experiments, data collection and analysis, lab management and purchasing, ensuring safety compliance, mentoring students, and communication of findings.

Responsibilities:

The successful candidate will lead and support research activities across field, greenhouse, and lab settings. The technologist will have opportunities for professional development, including production of publications (co-authorship), personnel management, and communication of findings to stakeholders.

Experiments will be conducted in greenhouses on Penn State's campus, at the Russell E. Larson Research Station at Rock Springs (25 minutes from campus), and at other field sites as needed. The technician will be responsible for implementing and maintaining field experiments, including operating field sampling equipment and general data collection. In the lab, the technician will ensure accuracy and safety of root and soil analyses; this includes the development of lab SOPs, setup and maintenance of lab equipment, sample preparation, and other necessary lab duties. Other duties may include managing students, purchasing, and analyzing and communicating results from experiments.

This is a limited term position funded for one year from date of hire with excellent possibility of refunding.This position offers a flexible work arrangement that combines remote and on-campus work.Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.

Qualifications:

• This position requires a bachelor's degree plus three or more years of related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Experience can be obtained concurrently with degrees and candidates with an MS degree are encouraged to apply. Research experience related to Biology, Ecology, Plant Science, Environmental Science, or Soil Science are most appropriate for the position.

• The successful candidate must be able to work independently in field and lab research environments, coordinate several projects simultaneously, learn new computer and experimental techniques, have stellar attention to detail, and demonstrate communication skills necessary to work effectively with diverse students, team members, farmers, industry representatives and the public.

• The position requires the ability to conduct physical labor outdoors for long periods of time, even in adverse weather conditions.

• This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties and regular travel to field sites. A valid driver's license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.

Additional Information:

Review of applications will be on a rolling basis and begin April 2, 2025. Applicants should include the following when applying for this position:

• 1 page cover letter (Including career goals, and approximate date of availability)

• Resume or CV

• References (Minimum of three, including name and contact information)

This position will require successful completion of standard background checks.

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging in all its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belongingthat supports both broad and specific equity initiatives, leverages theeducational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of thecommunity thrive.We value belonging as a core strength and anessential element of the university's teaching, research, and servicemission.

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades is:

Salary Structure - additional information on Penn State's job and salary structure.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS: