Research Project Manager

Penn State University

1d • $56,200 - $81,500 • Onsite

About The Position

The Tree Fruit Extension Entomology Program at the Penn State Fruit Research and Extension Center (FREC), located in Biglerville, PA, is seeking a Research Project Manager to join a collaborative research team. The candidate will help oversee and advise on multiple externally funded research and extension projects related to the biology and behavior of insect pests affecting tree fruit, the development and implementation of integrated pest management practices and tools, advanced insect monitoring, and will be the primary manager of day-to-day activities in the laboratory, greenhouse, and field. This position will interact directly with staff, faculty, Extension, and internal/external collaborators.

Requirements

• The candidate must demonstrate a strong work ethic, professionalism, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
• Bachelor's Degree
• No prior relevant work experience required; previous relevant work experience accepted in lieu of education.
• Possess a Pennsylvania Certified Pesticide Applicator’s License, Category 18, or acquire it within the first 3 months of employment.
• Be organized, responsive, detail-oriented, and professional.
• Be able to adapt to shifting priorities.
• Be goal-oriented and able to work independently.
• Possess excellent research integrity and work ethics.
• Demonstrate high competency in oral and written communication.

Nice To Haves

• Previous work-related experience in entomology, microbiology, or other biological sciences.
• Working knowledge of the tree fruit production system.
• Effective knowledge of standard laboratory techniques and statistics.
• Knowledge of bioinformatics is preferred but not required.
• Experience in program management and be interested in becoming skilled in specific project tasks.
• Computer skills or commitment to acquiring skills for statistical software, Photoshop, Word, Excel, and other Microsoft Office tools, and other software.
• Experience designing, coordinating, and managing research inquiries.
• Experience writing and preparing scholarly manuscripts.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and advise on project planning and the execution of research objectives outlined in funded projects. This includes developing workflow procedures to prioritize and delegate research tasks.
• Manage and organize a collection of results across all research projects; assist with data analysis and result compilation.
• Lead, coordinate, and evaluate milestones of each project, including writing of scholarly and Extension products, to completion.
• Prepare regular reports of each project’s activities reflecting achievements and/or barriers.
• Coordinate manuscript submission procedures by working collaboratively with PI and project collaborators; represent the program’s research interests at institutional workshops, meetings, and Extension events.
• Interact and coordinate joint research activities with collaborators at the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, USDA, and other universities.
• Facilitate each project’s records and document keeping, including SOPs, long-term storage of materials, and materials and supply expenses.
• Participate and contribute to short and long-term planning of activities supporting subsequent grant proposals.
• Oversee day-to-day activities in the laboratory, greenhouse, and field, which include complying with EHS regulations and maintaining oversight of other regulatory permits.
• Work with the PI on hiring, onboarding, and mentoring part-time wage staff.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Robust retirement plans
• Substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time
• Generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children

What This Job Offers

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