Part-time Research Assistant at CIMP-3D Park County, MT

The Soilborne Disease Ecology Lab within the Department of Plant Pathology and Environmental Microbiology at Pennsylvania State University seeks an undergrad or recent graduate to join our vibrant research group. The candidate will assist in various soilborne disease projects in the lab, greenhouse, and field. Our research focuses on microbial ecology and microbiome research, including fungal/oomycete endophyte community dynamics, disease diagnostics of potato, maize, grapevine, strawberry, and dispersal of soilborne pathogens across ecological scales.

• Assist in soilborne disease projects in the lab, greenhouse, and field.
• Follow safety and research protocols.
• Prepare buffers and lab solutions.
• Conduct molecular laboratory tasks such as DNA extractions and run PCRs/qPCRs.
• Process incoming soil and plant samples.
• Collect field samples in collaboration with lab members.
• Effectively communicate with supervisors and perform independent tasks.

• Undergraduate student or recent graduate.
• Willingness to learn lab techniques and follow protocols.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work independently.
• Direct experience with plants, soil, and microbial culturing is a plus.

• May require lifting up to 50 pounds.
• May require operating a motor vehicle; valid US driver’s license and motor vehicle records check required.
• Successful completion of background checks in accordance with university policies.

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 .