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

Part-Time Research Assistant PositionsPart-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!Typical duties in this position include, but are not limited to:Fungal culture media preparationMicrobiological culturing and isolation of soil and seed-borne fungal pathogensEnumeration of fungal coloniesSelection of pure cultures of isolates for long-term preservationMicroscopic evaluation and identification of fungal culturesAssist with laboratory assays, including pathogenicity tests and fungicide sensitivity studiesAssist with DNA extraction and quality check of fungal isolates from different genomic projectsCollect soil and plant samples from field and greenhouse experiments and provide necessary assistance with sample processing before analysis/evaluationPerform germination tests for corn, soybean, and wheat seed samples from field trialsAssess plant diseases from research studies conducted in the field, as well as in greenhouse or growth chamber trialsData entry of field and laboratory experimentsEmployment 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 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 View phone number on click.appcast.io.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.