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Part-Time Undergraduate Research Assistant - Plant Pathology and Microbiology

The Pennsylvania State University
remote work
United States, Pennsylvania, University Park
201 Old Main (Show on map)
Oct 28, 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 Department of Plant Pathology and Environmental Microbiology seeks two part-time Undergraduate Research Assistants to support research activities in the Global Change Pathology Laboratory. The individuals will assist with ongoing research projects focused on plant-associated and plant-pathogenic bacteria. Primary activities will include preparation of microbiological media and materials, bacterial culturing and maintenance, preparation of bacterial inoculum, plant inoculations, disease assessment, basic molecular biology procedures, growth chamber experiments, and organization of experimental samples and data. The students will work closely with graduate researchers and will receive training in laboratory safety, aseptic technique, bacterial culture, plant pathology methods, and basic experimental procedures. Additional responsibilities may be assigned depending on ongoing research needs and the students' level of training. The successful candidates should be dependable, organized, attentive to detail, and willing to learn laboratory and controlled-environment plant research techniques. Previous laboratory or research experience is preferred but not required. Students should be able to follow written protocols, maintain accurate records, work independently after training, and communicate effectively with members of the research team. Location: Department of Plant Pathology and Environmental Microbiology, Buckhout Laboratory, University Park, PA Compensation: $15 per hour 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