Part-Time Research Assistant – 3PL Warehouse Industry Impact Study

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• 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, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS The Center for Supply Chain Research at Penn State University Park invites applications for one part-time research assistant to start in November 2026. The successful candidate will assist Dr. Saurabh Bansal and Dr. Donna Palumbo for up to 10 hours per week for approximately 6 weeks.

Job Duties:

• Seek out and collect structured and unstructured data
• Cleanse, process, and organize supply chain datasets from various web sources, industry reports, industry organizations, public data sources (i.e. census, public intelligence) to support business intelligence and research
• Cleanse and process data for accuracy and consistency, preparing it for analysis
• Analyze to identify trends, patterns, or insights and present findings through visualizations and reports

Required Qualifications:

• Must be able to ensure high-quality data collection, integrity, and readiness for analysis
• Strong command and background in data management and experience working with varying sizes of data sets.
• Ability to analyze complex data sets and derive meaningful insights; includes quantitative and qualitative analysis and recommendations for further research and action.
• Meticulous in ensuring data accuracy and handling exceptions or anomalies in data.
• Capable of translating data into readable information and accessible formats (i.e. Excel spreadsheets, data sets).
• Ability to develop data tables and visualizations (heat maps, charts, info graphics) to help illustrate findings.
• Capable of developing innovative solutions to overcome technical challenges encountered during data collection and information preparation.
• Ability to present findings in professional preparing report and presentation formats suitable for publication.
• Ability to work independently with little guidance and provide regular updates to project leadership and participate in regular virtual calls/meetings.

Candidates with questions may contact the department assistant, Autumn Knepp, at [email protected].

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

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