Advanced Professional Research Technologist – Plant Sciences

POSITION SPECIFICS
The Straw Lab at Penn State University in University Park, PA, invites applications for an
Advanced Professional Research Technologist – Plant Sciences
to support the Turfgrass Science program and the Center for Sports Surface Research. This position plays a critical leadership role in designing, coordinating, and executing complex field and laboratory research to advance sustainable turfgrass management and improve the functionality of sports fields and golf courses. The incumbent will provide high-level oversight of research activities, data interpretation, outreach, and personnel, while implementing strategic initiatives and evaluating research impact.

Primary Duties:

Strategic Research Management and Execution

• Lead the planning, coordination, and execution of advanced turfgrass field and laboratory research trials.
• Oversee complex experimental setups, integrating new technologies to address evolving research needs.
• Perform in-depth data analysis and synthesize findings to inform science-based management recommendations.

Technology Integration and Infrastructure Oversight

• Maintain, evaluate, and implement new research technologies and instrumentation.
• Manage the calibration and performance of laboratory and field-based equipment.
• Develop standard operating procedures for data acquisition, quality control, and sensor maintenance.

Fiscal Oversight and Resource Allocation

• Manage project budgets, track expenditures, and validate procurement for research materials and equipment.
• Forecast and allocate resources to support long-term research objectives and stakeholder-driven priorities.

Stakeholder Engagement and Outreach Strategy

• Coordinate and deliver outreach programs to communicate research findings to stakeholders across industry, government, and academia.
• Serve as a liaison to local and national turfgrass associations and industry collaborators to support external engagement and impact.

Education and Instructional Support

• Develop instructional content, assist in teaching Turfgrass Soils courses, and contribute to training programs for students, interns, and professionals.
• Mentor undergraduate and graduate students and participate in curriculum and program development related to turfgrass science.

Team Leadership and Personnel Supervision

• Supervise and mentor part-time, student, and temporary employees engaged in research and lab work.
• Provide leadership in staff development, task prioritization, and adherence to safety and compliance standards.
• May serve as an indirect supervisor or mentor to full-time employees and participate in hiring decisions.

Professional Development and Representation

• Represent the lab at national conferences, workshops, and scientific meetings.
• Stay informed on current research trends and regulatory requirements in turfgrass and environmental management.
• Contribute to proposal writing and may serve as a co-investigator on grant-funded projects.

Education and Experience Requirements:

Required Education

• Bachelor’s degree in turfgrass science, plant sciences, environmental science, or a closely related field.

Preferred Education

• Master’s degree in turfgrass science or a related discipline.

Required Experience

• Minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in turfgrass management, applied field research, or teaching.
• Demonstrated ability to lead projects independently and coordinate cross-functional teams.

Preferred Experience

• 4–7 years in turfgrass management, with emphasis in sports field or golf course systems.
• Experience integrating sensor-based technologies and supervising research personnel.
• Prior involvement in educational program development or teaching is…