Field Research Technologist

Penn State University • University Park, IL

20h

About The Position

The Entomology department in the College of Agricultural Sciences is hiring a Field Research Technologist. The Research Technologist will develop, design and conduct research projects/experiments in the laboratory/field related to Life Science disciplines including neuroscience, plant science, physiology, pharmacology, microbiology, genomics, bioinformatics, and biotechnology; investigate and evaluate research methods, advise faculty/researchers on optimal use of methodology and equipment; collect, correlate, analyze, summarize and report on results; identify data integrity issues; train users in equipment operation and research techniques; and oversee daily operations of project. Responsibilities include: Conduct research projects or experiments related to Mushroom Fly Integrated Pest Management; ensure protocol adherence; review progress and evaluate results. Perform a variety of experimental tasks including assays, material tests, and specimen evaluation. Execute and develop data collection procedures and troubleshoot field experiments; record, correlate, and analyze data; prepare analysis summaries. Contribute to the design of research methods; troubleshoot with mushroom growers, identify potential problems; recommend solutions and technical approaches for problem solving, communicate this with the mushroom fly research team. Make recommendations for the use of data collection and management. Train users in novel technology and research techniques; explain and demonstrate technology and equipment capabilities, limitations, and outcomes. Develop project protocols; provide input in determining feasibility of goals and objectives; responsible for assuring quality, cost effectiveness and timeliness of assigned projects. Author papers, proposals, presentations and reports in order to disseminate findings to the larger research community. Communicate with the mushroom industry and the mushroom fly research team.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree
• No prior relevant work experience required; previous relevant work experience accepted in lieu of education.
• Required Certifications: None
• Please submit a resume, cover letter, and three professional references.
• 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.
• Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research projects or experiments related to Mushroom Fly Integrated Pest Management; ensure protocol adherence; review progress and evaluate results.
• Perform a variety of experimental tasks including assays, material tests, and specimen evaluation.
• Execute and develop data collection procedures and troubleshoot field experiments; record, correlate, and analyze data; prepare analysis summaries.
• Contribute to the design of research methods; troubleshoot with mushroom growers, identify potential problems; recommend solutions and technical approaches for problem solving, communicate this with the mushroom fly research team.
• Make recommendations for the use of data collection and management.
• Train users in novel technology and research techniques; explain and demonstrate technology and equipment capabilities, limitations, and outcomes.
• Develop project protocols; provide input in determining feasibility of goals and objectives; responsible for assuring quality, cost effectiveness and timeliness of assigned projects.
• Author papers, proposals, presentations and reports in order to disseminate findings to the larger research community.
• Communicate with the mushroom industry and the mushroom fly research team.

Benefits

• 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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level