Undergraduate Lab Assistant in Biology​/Entomology - Boyle Lab

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

The Boyle lab is seeking to hire a highly motivated undergraduate for Spring 2025 to assist with an exciting research project to investigate the sublethal and biological effects of pesticides on solitary bees. This project involves conducting a series of indoor trials using
* Osmia cornifrons
* species reared in the lab, exposing them to insecticide(s) at different concentrations and analyzing sperm vitality and ovary size of experimental bees. The study provides an excellent opportunity to gain hands‑on experience in experimental design, data collection, microscopy, dissection, and biological data analysis, while developing critical thinking and troubleshooting skills that will propel your college career and guide your future directions.

The position will start from April 2025 until May, and potentially through the summer if the student is interested. The expected commitment is 15–20 hours per week for $15 per hour pay.

Areas:
Agricultural Sciences, Engineering, Life Sciences, Ecology

Mentors:
Prof. Natalie Boyle and Dr. Jaya Sravanthi Mokkapati

• Assist with lab work, including rearing bees.
• Contribute to controlled experiments to estimate sublethal effects of pesticides.
• Record and analyze bee survival data.
• Data curation and entry; statistical analysis.
• Assist in the preparation of research reports and potential publications.

• Good communication skills and working knowledge of Microsoft Office 365.
• Previous experience with lab‑based or toxicological research is preferred.

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 814‑865‑1473.