Part-Time Undergraduate Research Assistant – Plant Pathology and Microbiology

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JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS The Department of Plant Pathology and Environmental Microbiology seeks two part-time Undergraduate Research Assistants to support research activities in the Global Change Pathology Laboratory.

The individuals will assist with ongoing research projects focused on plant-associated and plant-pathogenic bacteria. Primary activities will include preparation of microbiological media and materials, bacterial culturing and maintenance, preparation of bacterial inoculum, plant inoculations, disease assessment, basic molecular biology procedures, growth chamber experiments, and organization of experimental samples and data.

The students will work closely with graduate researchers and will receive training in laboratory safety, aseptic technique, bacterial culture, plant pathology methods, and basic experimental procedures. Additional responsibilities may be assigned depending on ongoing research needs and the students’ level of training.

The successful candidates should be dependable, organized, attentive to detail, and willing to learn laboratory and controlled-environment plant research techniques. Previous laboratory or research experience is preferred but not required. Students should be able to follow written protocols, maintain accurate records, work independently after training, and communicate effectively with members of the research team.

Location: Department of Plant Pathology and Environmental Microbiology, Buckhout Laboratory, University Park, PA Compensation: $15 per hour

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