Part-Time Student (Undergraduate) Freshwater Ecology Research Assistant

Penn State University is seeking a part-time undergraduate research assistant for the Sweetman Lab, focusing on freshwater ecology and macroplastic pollution. Responsibilities include conducting field and lab experiments, sample processing, data collection, and maintaining equipment. Candidates should be current undergraduates with relevant skills in ecology and fieldwork. The position offers hands-on experience but does not guarantee remote work.
## Company Overview

The Pennsylvania State University (Penn State) is a public land-grant research university with a mission of teaching, research, and public engagement across 24 campuses.

Penn State emphasizes service, discovery, and community impact and upholds values of Integrity, Respect, Responsibility, Discovery, Excellence, and Community.

## Role Summary

Part‑time undergraduate research assistant position in the Sweetman Lab (Department of Ecosystem Science and Management) supporting research on the effects of macroplastic pollution in freshwater ecosystems.

This role provides hands-on field and lab experience and contributes directly to experiments, sample processing, and data collection that support faculty-led research and potential student-led projects.

## Key Responsibilities

- Design and conduct experiments examining macroinvertebrate community establishment on macroplastic litter

- Conduct field sampling in streams and mesocosms and perform sediment coring

- Sort and process field-collected samples, including identification and handling of macroinvertebrates

- Perform microscope work and data entry for sample results and experimental records

- Maintain laboratory and field equipment and assist with routine lab duties and sample management

- Support miscellaneous research tasks as assigned, including preparation of materials and assisting other lab members

- Potentially develop and/or lead individual research projects under supervision

- Operate a motor vehicle for field work (drive to sampling sites) when required

## Required Qualifications

- Current undergraduate student (preferred) or eligibility to work as an external applicant through Penn State processes

- Ability and willingness to perform fieldwork (outdoors, variable conditions) and lift/carry field equipment

- Basic microscope skills and attention to detail for sorting and identifying macroinvertebrates

- Comfortable with data entry and maintaining organized records

- Valid U.S. driver’s license and ability to successfully complete a motor vehicle records (MVR) check

- Ability to pass standard University background checks

## Preferred Qualifications

- Coursework or academic background in ecology, biology, environmental science, or a related field

- Prior field or laboratory research experience, especially with aquatic sampling, mesocosms, or sediment coring

- Experience identifying freshwater macroinvertebrates

- Prior experience with laboratory data management and basic spreadsheet or database skills

## Compensation & Benefits

- Salary range: Not specified in posting

- Benefits: Standard Penn State employment policies and benefits apply for eligible appointments; specifics depend on employment type and student status

- Additional notes: Employment contingent on successful background check(s) and MVR check; remote or hybrid work approval is not guaranteed

## Company Culture & Values

- Penn State emphasizes inclusion, diversity, equity, and sustainability and is committed to providing equal employment opportunities

- Institutional values highlighted: Integrity, Respect, Responsibility, Discovery, Excellence, and Community

- The university promotes collaboration, service, and positive community impact across local and global communities

## Additional Information

- Location: Penn State University Park, University Park, PA (fieldwork across central Pennsylvania waterways expected)

- Work arrangement: Part‑time, primarily onsite and field-based; remote/hybrid work is not guaranteed

- Application instructions: Current Penn State employees or students must apply internally via Workday.

- External applicants should use the Apply link provided in the posting or follow Penn State’s external application process.

- If you cannot use the online application due to an impairment or disability, contact 814-865-1473 for assistance

- Equal Employment Opportunity: Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer and provides employment opportunities without regard to protected characteristics