Mushroom Research Center Research Coordinator

The Pennsylvania State University•University Park, FL

19d

About The Position

The Department of Plant Pathology and Environmental Microbiology is seeking a Research Coordinator to design, plan, and oversee daily mushroom cultivation operations at the Mushroom Research Center. The position supports research activities and coordinates with researchers to schedule growing-room use and crop timelines. It also assists with planning, execution, and administration of complex research projects, including experimental design, data management and analysis, compliance, timelines, and financial management. The coordinator serves as a primary point of contact for faculty leadership, sponsors, and institutional partners to help ensure the long-term sustainability of research programs. The role oversees mushroom cultivation operations, maintains supplies, coordinates growing-room use, directs cultivation processes, and helps ensure facilities and equipment function effectively. Work takes place in indoor growing rooms, composting areas, and research facilities and may involve physical labor and machinery operation. The position may be filled at either the Research Project Manager - Intermediate Professional level or the Research Project Manager - Professional level, with different education and experience requirements for each level.

Requirements

Comprehensive knowledge of mushroom cultivation and substrate preparation, primarily for Agaricus button mushrooms; experience with other mushroom species or mycelium products is relevant.
Strong oral and written communication and organizational skills.
Exemplary interpersonal skills.
Meticulous attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently and accurately.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Valid driver's license and ability to operate agricultural and facility equipment.
Familiarity with building systems and willingness to coordinate maintenance needs.
For Research Project Manager - Intermediate Professional: master's degree and at least 1 year of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
For Research Project Manager - Professional: bachelor's degree; no prior relevant work experience required, with previous relevant work experience accepted in lieu of education.
Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.
Successful completion of required background checks.

Nice To Haves

Basic computer skills and experience with cultivation or environmental control software.
Computer literacy, including proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.
Strong time-management skills.
Willingness to support a dynamic research environment.

Responsibilities

Oversee mushroom cultivation activities, including crop setup, maintenance, and monitoring using established procedures.
Support composting operations, including compost preparation and management.
Organize and maintain supplies inventory and coordinate purchasing.
Communicate with researchers to schedule growing-room usage and coordinate crop timelines.
Operate and maintain forklifts, skid-steers, and dumpster trucks safely and efficiently.
Assist with facility management by identifying issues and coordinating repairs to heating and cooling systems with Office of Physical Plant staff.
Use and support software systems for monitoring and managing mushroom growth parameters.
Assist with planning, execution, and administration of research projects, including experimental design, data management and analysis, compliance, timelines, and financial management.
Serve as a primary point of contact for faculty leadership, sponsors, and institutional partners.