Offer summary

Qualifications:

Proficiency in R programming and ecological modeling tools like MaxEnt., Experience with high-performance computing (HPC) systems for data processing., Strong scientific writing skills with peer-reviewed publication experience., Knowledge of agrobiodiversity, climate adaptation, or sustainable agriculture..

Key responsibilities:

Analyze ecological niche models using MaxEnt, RStudio, and HPC resources.

Interpret model outputs to evaluate crop suitability under various climate scenarios.

Assist in drafting and revising scientific manuscripts based on project findings.

Contribute to developing an online decision-support tool for farmers.

Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
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 part-time Research Technologist will continue contributing to an ongoing project focused on underutilized crops and their role in enhancing agrobiodiversity and resilience to climate-related disasters. This position is essential for the completion of the project’s final phase, including data analysis, manuscript preparation, and support for an online decision-support tool for farmers.

Key Responsibilities:

Conduct analysis of ecological niche models developed using MaxEnt, RStudio, and high-performance computing (HPC) resources.
Interpret model outputs to assess crop suitability under current and projected climate scenarios.
Draft and revise peer-reviewed manuscripts for publication based on project findings.
Contribute to the development and refinement of an online tool designed to help farmers identify suitable underutilized crops for their region and climate.
Collaborate with interdisciplinary team members to ensure the accurate communication of scientific findings.
Assist with code development, data cleaning, and model validation as needed.

Preferred Qualifications:

Strong proficiency in R and ecological modeling tools such as MaxEnt.
Experience using HPC systems for data processing and modeling.
Proven scientific writing skills with experience contributing to peer-reviewed publications.
Familiarity with agrobiodiversity, climate adaptation, or sustainable agriculture topics.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

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

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

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 in all its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports both broad and specific 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.

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