New

Research Technologist - Root Agroecology Lab

The Pennsylvania State University
paid time off, sick time, remote work
United States, Pennsylvania, University Park
201 Old Main (Show on map)
Feb 13, 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. This position is funded for 1 year(s); continuation past 1 year(s) will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding. POSITION SPECIFICS The Fleishman Root Agroecology Lab in the Plant Science Department at The Pennsylvania State University seeks a Research Technologist to support research on perennial root systems and their impact on crop health and soil quality. Field research crops include grapevines, tree fruit, cover crops, and forages. The role includes support of field and greenhouse experiments, data collection and analysis, and lab management and purchasing, ensuring safety compliance. Responsibilities The successful candidate support research activities across field, greenhouse, and lab settings. The technologist will have opportunities for professional development, including project management, research methods, and attending workshops. Experiments will be conducted in greenhouses on Penn State's campus, at the Russell E. Larson Research Station at Rock Springs (25 minutes from campus), and at other field sites as needed. The technician will be responsible for implementing and maintaining field experiments, including operating field sampling equipment and general data collection. In the lab, the technician will ensure accuracy and safety of root and soil analyses; this includes supporting setup and maintenance of lab equipment, sample preparation, and other necessary lab duties. Qualifications Research experience related to Biology, Ecology, Plant Science, Environmental Science, or Soil Science are most appropriate for the position. Experience can be obtained concurrently with degrees and candidates with related experience are encouraged to apply. The successful candidate must be able to work independently in field and lab research environments, coordinate several projects simultaneously, learn new computer and experimental techniques, have stellar attention to detail, and demonstrate communication skills necessary to work effectively with diverse students, team members, farmers, industry representatives and the public. The position requires the ability to conduct physical labor outdoors for long periods of time, even in adverse weather conditions. This position requires regular travel to field sites. The Fleishman Lab values diversity of thought, perspective, experience, and is actively committed to a culture of inclusion and respect. MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS Bachelor's Degree No prior relevant work experience required; previous relevant work experience accepted in lieu of education. Required Certifications: None Additional Information Review of applications will be on a rolling basis and begin March 16, 2026. Start date is flexible but ideally is in May 2026. Application Requirements Applicants should include the following when applying for this position: <1 page cover letter (Including career goals and desired start date) Resume or CV References (Minimum of three, including name and contact information) BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver's license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks. Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. SALARY & BENEFITS The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $34,800.00 - $50,500.00. Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page. 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