The Aquaponics Undergraduate Student Intern - Research will support the daily operations of the University's aquaponics facilities and assist in research funded by a Pennsylvania Space Grant Consortium (PSGC) Mini NASA Grant for closed-loop food production. System maintenance duties include crop planting and harvesting, fish management and harvesting, record keeping, and cleaning. Research duties include assisting in experimental design and data collection. All duties and responsibilities will be completed under the guidance of aquaponics faculty/staff. This is a semester-long position with the potential for extension depending upon student performance and funding. Applicants must be prepared to provide a resume/CV, most recent unofficial transcript, and a brief statement as to why they are interested in this position.WORK HOURSThe greenhouse work requires morning hours, while other hours will be determined based on student schedule and system maintenance and/or research needs (including potential weekends). An average of 10 hours per week is expected.** NOTE: This position requires work both on-campus and at the aquaponics greenhouse located off-site at the Steelton-Highspire School District. Support may be available through the Office of Career Services and Experiential Learning for students who need transportation assistance.POSITION REQUIREMENTS
- Preference is given to students enrolled in undergraduate programs in environmental science, integrative sciences, or biotechnology. However, students from other programs will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
- Completion of lab courses in biology and chemistry is preferred
- Interest in pursuing future research and/or work related to controlled environment agriculture or similar fields
- Must be hardworking, dedicated, meticulous, self-motivated and have a positive attitude
- Enjoy working in a greenhouse environment and lab setting
- Willingness and ability to take and follow instructions
- Ability to work effectively in a team environment
- Transportation to/from the greenhouse site is the student's responsibility (a bus stop is within walking distance of the greenhouse, and rideshare support may be available)
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Able to consistently operate aquaponics structures and machinery, as well as any necessary chemicals involved in the maintenance of the equipmentESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIESThe tasks for this position will include:
- seeding, transplanting, harvesting, and packaging of various crop species
- fish management
- harvesting fish upon maturity
- conducting water chemistry tests
- keeping accurate and detailed records
- cleaning and maintenance of facilities
- assisting with after-school programming and/or summer camps
- supporting ongoing research projects
- adherence to required lab safety guidelines
All tasks must be performed while adhering to university policy and national, state, and local standards for safety and grant regulatory compliance.Note: Other duties as assigned to support the mission and vision of the University; nothing in this job description restricts the University's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.