Research Technologist

Research Technologist

The Plant Science-Weed and Applied Plant Ecology Department in the College of Agricultural Sciences at Penn State is hiring a Research Technologist.

The Research Technologist will assist with day-to-day operations associated with field, greenhouse, and lab experiments associated with the weed ecology program under supervision of lead faculty and lab manager. Specific responsibilities include:

• Managing the implementation and maintenance of research experiments.
• Organizing and processing samples, and assisting with data collection of various research projects.
• Managing inventory of research supplies and assisting with lab clean up and organization.

The research technologist will ensure that all tasks are prioritized according to time and weather constraints. Research projects could include, but are not limited to, exploring the following research questions:

• How agricultural management practices influence weed suppression and weed seed mortality in the soil seedbank?
• How do seed traits influence their biological control from soil microbes or granivores?
• How can we enhance the efficacy of ecologically based weed management practices?

This is an annual-fixed term appointment (renewable annually) from date of hire with excellent possibility of long-term funding. Opportunity to pursue graduate studies also exists.

Required Qualifications:

The candidate must have previous experience and demonstrated competency in the design, implementation, maintenance, and synthesis of field and/or greenhouse experiments within the plant sciences.

Preferred Qualifications:

B.S. degree in agronomy, weed science, soil science, forestry, or sufficient work experience in agricultural plant science research is preferred.

Minimum Education, Work Experience & Required Certifications

Bachelor's Degree; No prior relevant work experience required; previous relevant work experience accepted in lieu of education. Required Certifications: None

The Penn State University Park Campus is located in State College in Central Pennsylvania. State College is a community of approximately 40,000 year round residents in the heart of the Allegheny Mountains. The geographic setting is one of fertile agricultural valleys situated between tree-covered ridges. Agriculture is Pennsylvania's number one industry with dairy and other livestock, grain and forage crops, tree fruits, and vegetable production being key industries.

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 $36,888.00 - $53,532.00. 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.

EEO Is The Law

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.