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JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:Part-time (spring and fall semesters) research assistant positions are available in the Esker Lab in the Department of Plant Pathology and Environmental Microbiology. These positions provide laboratory and field support for the plant disease epidemiology program, with emphasis on research in field crops such as corn, soybean, and wheat.We are a dynamic lab that uses multiple methods for working with plant diseases funded by federal grants and support from commodity groups and industry partners. Our program conducts research using facilities located in Buckhout Laboratory on the University Park campus. We also have field trials at the Russell E. Larson Agricultural Research Center at Rock Springs, the Southeast Agricultural Research and Extension Center at Manheim, and across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as part of the Soybean On-Farm Network. Opportunities also exist for conducting independent research!
Typical duties in this position include, but are not limited to:- Fungal culture media preparation
- Microbiological culturing and isolation of soil and seed-borne fungal pathogens
- Enumeration of fungal colonies
- Selection of pure cultures of isolates for long-term preservation
- Microscopic evaluation and identification of fungal cultures
- Assist with laboratory assays, including pathogenicity tests and fungicide sensitivity studies
- Assist with DNA extraction and quality check of fungal isolates from different genomic projects
- Collect soil and plant samples from field and greenhouse experiments and provide necessary assistance with sample processing prior to analysis/evaluation
- Perform germination tests for corn, soybean, and wheat seed samples from field trials
- Assess plant diseases from research studies conducted in the field, as well as in greenhouse or growth chamber trials
- Data entry of field and laboratory experiments
This job requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your 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.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.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS: Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
EEO IS THE LAWPenn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action 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 814-###-####.Federal Contractors Labor Law PosterPA State Labor Law PosterAffirmative ActionPenn State PoliciesCopyright InformationHotlinesUniversity Park, PA