Part-Time Research Assistant – Lieurance Invasion Ecology Lab

Position Summary

Dr. Lieurance in the Department of Ecosystem Science and Management currently has an opening for paid part-time research assistant(s). The successful candidate will assist with sponsored research conducting invasion status assessments on non-native species present in the US.

• Train with US Dept. of Agriculture sponsors
• Complete status assessments of non-native plants
• Conduct literature reviews
• Assist in reviewing completed assessments
• Attend regular meetings
• Perform other tasks related to invasion assessments

This agreement will support the use of the USDA-APHIS-PPQ Weed Status Assessment (WSA), a process that helps determine how invasive certain high-risk non-native plants are in the United States. The results will guide which weeds should be prioritized for classical biological control—using natural enemies, such as insects or pathogens, to manage them. In the past, these targets were often chosen based on expert opinion or requests from local land managers.

While valuable, that approach can be subjective. The WSA uses a more evidence-based method, combining scientific data, modeling, and input from stakeholders to make decisions that are more effective, efficient, and transparent. It looks at where a plant is currently found, how quickly it could spread, the damage it causes, and how difficult it is to control. This information helps ensure that biocontrol programs focus on the species where they can have the greatest impact.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

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 . 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.