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JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS: Research: Lupinus perennis (blue lupine) is a rare plant in Pennsylvania. This project led by graduate student Isabella Petitta, advised by Dr. Margarita Lopez-Uribe and Dr. Autumn Sabo, will assess blue lupine populations and their associated insect pollinators and plant communities in Pennsylvania.

The effects of prescribed fire and deer browsing on lupine fitness, pollination and habitats will be investigated through field measurement and observation. Population genetic differentiation will be assessed in the lab through microsatellite analysis.

Duration and Compensation: Students must be willing to work at least three 8-hour weekdays per week, beginning in May (exact date to be negotiated with selected candidate) through at least July, although pre-scheduled unpaid vacation time will be granted. The assistant position pays $15/hour.

Expectations: The part-time research assistant position involves exploring natural areas and investigating complex ecological questions. Qualified candidates will have an interest or background in plant ecology, entomology, field biology and/or environmental science. Candidates must be able to navigate terrain in wooded areas, stand for long periods of time, work in inclement weather conditions with poison ivy and biting insects, and closely follow detailed protocols.

Work will include both independent tasks and teamwork so candidates should be comfortable with both. Enthusiasm for the outdoors, attention to detail, dependability, and promptness are all job requirements.

Plant identification skills, and experience with scientific instrumentation, pollinator collection, Excel spreadsheets and building tools are advantages. Lab experience with DNA extractions and PCR would be ideal but is not required.

A current driver's license and reliable transportation to Penn State UP are both necessary. A candidate's willingness to occasionally use his/her/their personal vehicle for transportation to sites elsewhere in PA (with mileage reimbursement) is a plus.

Work will be primarily off-trail in natural areas (mostly in central PA) and indoors at Penn State UP. Travel to sites with a graduate student will be required. Duties will include (but are not limited to) inventorying plant species composition; measuring environmental factors such as canopy cover, soils and leaf litter; operating field cameras for deer and pollinator observation; observing pollinator visitation and collecting bee specimens; processing, recording, and entering data on paper and in Excel. Please communicate any concerns related to physical ability as we are able to make accommodations.

Apply Electronically in Workday: Include your resume, contact information for one reference, and a brief letter of interest directed to Isabella Petitta, Lab and Collections Research Technician, Penn State University, 501 ASI Building, University Park, PA 16802.

Complete applications should be submitted by April 15th, 2022 to ensure full consideration. Later submissions may be reviewed, as needs direct.

Preference will be given to Penn State students in ecology-related majors but interested students from other universities and fields of study are also encouraged to apply. Contact Isabella Petitta at irp5068@psu.edu with questions.

The Pennsylvan a State University is committed to and accountable for advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability in all of its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, foster a culture of inclusion that supports both broad and specific diversity initiatives, leverage the educational and institutional benefits of diversity in society and nature, and engage all individuals to help them thrive. We value inclusion as a core strength and an essential element of our public service mission.

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

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