Graduate Research Assistant

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 Forensic Science Program at The Pennsylvania State University seeks to fill a Graduate Research Assistant position for Summer 2025.  In this position, the selected candidate will be responsible for conducting an independent research study in forensic biology or forensic chemistry using appropriate analytical instrumentation and software and performing preliminary data analyses. 

Job duties will include: 

• Designing and writing a research plan for a topic in forensic biology or forensic chemistry

• Implementing the research plan and collecting experimental data while using appropriate controls 

• Maintaining appropriate lab notes and written documentation of research performed 

• Using R or other relevant software to perform preliminary data analysis 

• Any other relevant research-related tasks as determined by the supervisor 

The qualified candidate(s) will have obtained a B.S. (or equivalent) in forensic science, biology, chemistry, or a related field, and will have at least one year of relevant laboratory experience. 

Interested and qualified applicants should submit applications electronically and should include a CV and cover letter describing the candidate’s background and interest in the field.  Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position are filled.

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability in all of its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, foster a culture of inclusion that supports both broad and specific diversity initiatives, leverage the educational and institutional benefits of diversity in society and nature, and engage all individuals to help them thrive. We value inclusion as a core strength and an essential element of our public service mission.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS:

University Park, PA