Job Information
Pennsylvania State University Research Technologist - Plant Pathology and Environmental Microbiology in University Park, Pennsylvania
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process (https://pennstateoffice365.sharepoint.com/:b:/s/KnowledgeBaseArticlesSharing/EfiwgKReZ4VAjprFZPKWUm0Bq_sU3KzTmERfpryq0esPKQ) . Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. (https://pennstateoffice365.sharepoint.com/:b:/s/KnowledgeBaseArticlesSharing/Eeys15Xva4hFokHVtbP1eGIB5i1WFLc-J3k9KHgrFYZ7mg) Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click “Apply” and complete the application process for external applicants (https://hr.psu.edu/sites/hr/files/Application_Process_for_External_Applications_Non-Penn_State_Employees_.pdf) .
JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:
The Department of Plant Pathology and Environmental Microbiology is hiring a Research Technologist. The Research Technologist will be responsible for performing or directing the performance of specialized tasks in mushroom cultivation systems, experimental mycology, microbiology, and molecular biology. It involves highly specialized tasks such as performing precise microbiological analyses, aseptic culturing of pure isolates, conduction complex field and lab experiments, DNA and Protein extraction, microbiome analysis, bioinformatics, statistical analysis of data, reporting results.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Conduct in-depth literature searches to gather specific information and methodology on the research projects. Evaluate procedures and critically select the most efficient for use.
Conduct cropping trials and record observations and apply a complex statistical test to data collected.
Collection of substrates samples from field and lab experiments and sample preparation for DNA and protein extractions.
Organize and oversee experiments, including the preparation of materials, record observations, interpret experimental data, and summarize the findings.
Assist principal investigators in the performance of a wide variety of experiments utilizing complex laboratory procedures, including the harvesting of mushrooms, sampling, and sample processing.
Isolate and maintain pure cultures of a variety of organisms from different substrates.
Prepare spore or cell suspensions for inoculating crops for microbiome manipulation.
Assist in instructing students and subordinate technical personnel in practical research methods, techniques, and interpretation of results through informal methods and demonstrations. Orient new students and personnel to lab protocol.
May supervise, direct, and coordinate the daily activities of wage payroll students and oversee the operation of complex laboratory equipment. Evaluate the need for new equipment, order, and bring online.
Organize and implement a program for routine mushroom compost/crop assessments.
Operate a wide variety of complex equipment in the research project and for the Mushroom Research Center.
Maintain laboratory stock, records, and equipment, including multi-task computer and software. Manage and oversee the maintenance of laboratory equipment/ supplies.
Prepare research and extension information to support the outreach program of my supervisors.
Continuing education — participate in local, national, and international programs to upgrade my skills and knowledge used in the position.
This is a limited term position funded for one year from date of hire with good possibility of refunding.
Minimum Qualifications Education and Training:
Minimum requirements include a Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience. S ome knowledge of mushroom cultivation systems and microbial ecology is preferred.
The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in all of its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, foster a culture of inclusive excellence that supports both broad and specific diversity initiatives, leverage the educational and institutional benefits of diversity, and engage all individuals to help them thrive. We value inclusive excellence as a core strength and an essential element of our public service mission.
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades is:
$34,800.00 - $50,500.00
Salary Structure (https://hr.psu.edu/current-employee/compensation/staff-salary-grades-and-leveling-matrix) - additional information on Penn State's job and salary structure.
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 (https://police.psu.edu/annual-security-reports) .
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn 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 814-865-1473.
Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster (https://affirmativeaction.psu.edu/files/2022/01/Federal-Contractors-Labor-Law-Poster.pdf)
PA State Labor Law Poster
Affirmative Action (https://policy.psu.edu/policies/hr11)
Penn State Policies
Copyright Information (https://www.psu.edu/copyright-information)
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University Park, PA