New

Part-Time Summer Research Assistant for the Oak Project - Kersch-Becker Lab

The Pennsylvania State University
remote work
United States, Pennsylvania, University Park
201 Old Main (Show on map)
Apr 27, 2026
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, seeNotice to Out of State Applicants. JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS The College of Agricultural Sciences in the Department of Entomology is seeking applicants for Part-Time Summer Research Assistant - Kersch-Becker Lab. Job duties to include: Research focus: Effects of prescribed fire, ecosystem engineers and phyllosphere microbial diversity on spongy moth control and oak conservation Research will include: fieldwork (planting, recording arthropods on plants, assisting in experimental setup), conduct laboratory analyses (DNA extraction), working with insects/arthropods. Process and analyze plant, insect, and microbial samples. Maintain detailed records of field and laboratory data, ensuring data quality and organization for analysis. Contribute to the preparation of reports, presentations, and publications by synthesizing research findings. Candidates must be enthusiastic and self-motivated, detail oriented, willing to work flexible hours, enjoy working in the lab and outside, and be able to work independently. Requirements, qualifications, and/or competencies: The work would be primarily at the Kersch-Becker Lab at the Agricultural Sciences and Industries Building on the University Park campus, at Rock Springs Research station and on PA forest around Centre county. 30-40 hours per week for short-term periods, specific working times are flexible. Most work will be restricted to weekdays and normal working hours but there may be occasional data collection events that require weekends or odd hours. The person in this position will primarily be working with Dr. Monica Kersch-Becker. We do expect the employee to eventually work mostly independently on some tasks, such as data collection in the field and plant/arthropod colony care. Helpful, timely, and respectful communication with all personnel involved in the research is very important. There will also be many opportunities to interact with the other researchers in the Department of Entomology, maintaining a productive and respectful environment in the lab is necessary.Great opportunity to build your resume and gain research experience. Compensation: The starting rate for this job is $18/hour. BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES 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. 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