Part Time - Agricultural Sciences - Hermann Lab Research Assistant

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

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• 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:

Field experiment assistance, caring for insect colonies and performing laboratory experiments in the Hermann Lab. The main project will focus on identifying the insect communities that visit and use industrial hemp cropping plants. Candidates will work closely with members in the lab to collect insects, identify them and assess their damage on plant growth, crop yield and plant defensive chemistry. No experience is necessary, but a passionate personality and inquisitive nature are helpful.

Job Duties

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Research Focus: Effects of plant defenses on arthropod communities
• Research will Include: fieldwork (planting, recording arthropods on plants, assisting in experimental setup), collecting plant volatiles, working with insects/arthropods, assisting in insect colony care, and assisting in plant care.

Requirements and Qualifications

• Candidates must be enthusiastic and self-motivated, detail oriented, willing to work flexible hours, enjoy working in the lab and outside, and be able to work independently.

• Employment with the University for this job will require the operation of a motor vehicle as a part of the job duties. A valid US driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.

• Candidates must have a commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and justice. 

• Will require the ability to work in an outdoor environment in adverse weather conditions including extreme heat and cold.

Location and Commitments

• The work will be at the Agricultural Sciences and Industries Building on the University Park campus, at Rock Springs Agricultural station and at various farms in the state of Pennsylvania.
• 40 hours a week, specific working times are flexible and will be discussed and set at the beginning of field season.
• Most work will be restricted to weekdays and normal working hours but there may be occasional data collection events that require weekends or odd hours.

Duration of Appointment

• Late May/Early June to August 2022 (with possible extension into the academic year).

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability in all of its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, foster a culture of inclusion that supports both broad and specific diversity initiatives, leverage the educational and institutional benefits of diversity in society and nature, and engage all individuals to help them thrive. We value inclusion as a core strength and an essential element of our public service mission.

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