Part-Time Research Assistant Entomology

Benefits

Additional Information

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS: CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process . 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. 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 . Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants . JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS Penn State Extension Lehigh County is seeking applicants for a part-time research assistant position to support research on the biological control of spotted-wing drosophila (SWD), Drosophila suzukii, in Pennsylvania small fruit production systems. The successful candidate will assist with field, laboratory, and extension activities associated with monitoring SWD populations and evaluating biological control agents. Job duties include: Assist with the collection of fruit samples from commercial small fruit farms and research sites throughout Pennsylvania. Process fruit samples and rear insects from collected fruit in a laboratory setting. Sort, identify, and maintain insect specimens, including SWD and associated parasitoids. Enter, organize, and maintain research data and records. Assist with extension and outreach activities related to SWD management and biological control. Perform other research-related duties as assigned. Requirements, qualifications, and/or competencies: Current or recent undergraduate student in Entomology, Biology, or a related field. Experience collecting, handling, curating, and/or identifying insects is preferred. Experience working in an entomology laboratory or with insect collections is highly desirable. Strong attention to detail and ability to follow research protocols accurately. Ability to work independently and as part of a research team. Willingness to perform field work under varying environmental conditions. Strong organizational and communication skills. Previous experience with extension, outreach, or educational programs is appreciated. This position provides an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in insect rearing, classical biological control, and applied agricultural research. BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. 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 . EEO IS THE LAW Penn State is an equal opportunity 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. Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission. Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster PA State Labor Law Poster Penn State Policies Copyright Information Hotlines