Research Technologist - Root Agroecology Lab

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. This position is funded for 1 year(s); continuation past 1 year(s) will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding. POSITION SPECIFICS 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, cover crops, and forages. The role includes support of field and greenhouse experiments, data collection and analysis, and lab management and purchasing, ensuring safety compliance. Responsibilities The successful candidate support research activities across field, greenhouse, and lab settings. The technologist will have opportunities for professional development, including project management, research methods, writing outreach materials and attending workshops. 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 supporting setup and maintenance of lab equipment, sample preparation, and other necessary lab duties. Qualifications Research experience related to Biology, Ecology, Plant Science, Environmental Science, or Soil Science are most appropriate for the position. Experience can be obtained concurrently with degrees and candidates with an MS are encouraged to apply. 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. The Fleishman Lab values diversity of thought, perspective, experience, and is actively committed to a culture of inclusion and respect. 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 Application Information Review of applications will be on a rolling basis. Start date is flexible but ideally is in July or August 2026. Applicants should include the following when applying for this position: <1 page cover letter (Including career goals and desired start date) Resume or CV References (Minimum of three, including name and contact information) 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. Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure 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. 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