Graduate Assistant/Academic

Research Technologist - Advanced Professional

 

POSITION SPECIFICS

 

The Straw Lab at Penn State University in University Park, PA, invites applications for an Advanced Professional Research Technologist - Plant Sciences to support the Turfgrass Science program and the Center for Sports Surface Research. This position plays a critical leadership role in designing, coordinating, and executing complex field and laboratory research to advance sustainable turfgrass management and improve the functionality of sports fields and golf courses. The incumbent will provide high-level oversight of research activities, data interpretation, outreach, and personnel, while implementing strategic initiatives and evaluating research impact.

 

Primary Duties:

 

Strategic Research Management and Execution

 

• Lead the planning, coordination, and execution of advanced turfgrass field and laboratory research trials.

 

• Oversee complex experimental setups, integrating new technologies to address evolving research needs.

 

• Perform in-depth data analysis and synthesize findings to inform science-based management recommendations.

 

Technology Integration and Infrastructure Oversight

 

• Maintain, evaluate, and implement new research technologies and instrumentation.

 

• Manage the calibration and performance of laboratory and field-based equipment.

 

• Develop standard operating procedures for data acquisition, quality control, and sensor maintenance.

 

Fiscal Oversight and Resource Allocation

 

• Manage project budgets, track expenditures, and validate procurement for research materials and equipment.

 

• Forecast and allocate resources to support long-term research objectives and stakeholder-driven priorities.

 

Stakeholder Engagement and Outreach Strategy

 

• Coordinate and deliver outreach programs to communicate research findings to stakeholders across industry, government, and academia.

 

• Serve as a liaison to local and national turfgrass associations and industry collaborators to support external engagement and impact.

 

Education and Instructional Support

 

• Develop instructional content, assist in teaching Turfgrass Soils courses, and contribute to training programs for students, interns, and professionals.

 

• Mentor undergraduate and graduate students and participate in curriculum and program development related to turfgrass science.

 

Team Leadership and Personnel Supervision

 

• Supervise and mentor part-time, student, and temporary employees engaged in research and lab work.

 

• Provide leadership in staff development, task prioritization, and adherence to safety and compliance standards.

 

• May serve as an indirect supervisor or mentor to full-time employees and participate in hiring decisions.

 

Professional Development and Representation

 

• Represent the lab at national conferences, workshops, and scientific meetings.

 

• Stay informed on current research trends and regulatory requirements in turfgrass and environmental management.

 

• Contribute to proposal writing and may serve as a co-investigator on grant-funded projects.

 

Education and Experience Requirements:

 

Required Education

 

• Bachelor's degree in turfgrass science, plant sciences, environmental science, or a closely related field.

 

Preferred Education

 

• Master's degree in turfgrass science or a related discipline.

 

Required Experience

 

• Minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in turfgrass management, applied field research, or teaching.

 

• Demonstrated ability to lead projects independently and coordinate cross-functional teams.

 

Preferred Experience

 

• 4-7 years in turfgrass management, with emphasis in sports field or golf course systems.

 

• Experience integrating sensor-based technologies and supervising research personnel.

 

• Prior involvement in educational program development or teaching is highly valued.

 

Additional Requirements:

 

• Industry certifications (e.g., Certified Sports Field Manager, GCSAA Class A) are beneficial.

 

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

 

Bachelor's Degree

 

3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted

 

Required Certifications:

 

None

 

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 $42,100.00 - $61,000.00.

 

https://hr.psu.edu/current-employee/compensation/staff-salary-grades-and-leveling-matrix - 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 https://hr.psu.edu/current-employee/benefits.

 

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.

 

The Pennsylvania State University 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.

 

Apply online athttps://apptrkr.com/6498073

 

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS: For more about safety at Penn State, and to review the Annual Security Report which contains information about crime statistics and other safety and security matters, please go to http://www.police.psu.edu/clery/, which will also provide you with detail on how to request a hard copy of the Annual Security Report.

 

Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action 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.

 

Copyright ©2025 Jobelephant.com Inc. All rights reserved.

 

https://www.jobelephant.com/

---